DUSHANBE, 16.07.2026 (NIAT Khovar) – Tajikistan is strengthening efforts to prevent the spread and misuse of psychotropic substances, as authorities report a significant increase in their illegal circulation during the first half of 2026.

Director of the Drug Control Agency under the President of Tajikistan, Samad Zafar, said that young people remain the main group using such substances, which pose serious risks to public health.

According to the agency, 526.3 kilograms of psychotropic substances were imported into Tajikistan during the first six months of 2026, compared with 155.5 kilograms during the same period in 2025. The figure represents an increase of more than three times.

Among the seized substances were 448.3 kilograms of pregabalin, 72.9 kilograms of methamphetamine, as well as other synthetic substances, including MDMA and alprazolam. Authorities also reported the seizure of nearly 2 million pregabalin tablets during the reporting period.

Experts noted that Tajikistan remains a transit country for narcotic drugs and synthetic psychotropic substances along the northern route, with illegal supplies entering the country from abroad.

The Drug Control Agency emphasized that the country continues to implement national strategies aimed at combating drug trafficking and reducing the spread of addiction, including the State Strategy on Combating Illicit Drug Trafficking for 2021–2030.

Officials warned that misuse of psychotropic substances can lead to serious health consequences, including neurological disorders, depression, memory impairment, reduced cognitive abilities and social problems. Medical specialists stressed that medicines such as pregabalin should only be used under medical supervision and prescription.

Authorities called on parents, educational institutions and communities to pay greater attention to preventing drug and psychotropic substance abuse among young people and to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in addressing the issue.