Sandro Calvani, head of the UN anti-drug office for Asia and the Pacific, said Southeast Asia is the world's main source of amphetamine-type stimulants, referred to as ATS. Myanmar is the biggest producer of speed, while Indonesia is a significant producer of ecstasy.

"The market of ATS goes by millions of people, not by a small percentage, zero point something of the world population, like heroin or cocaine," Calvani said.

The UN official said many drug barons are switching from heroin and cocaine production to amphetamine production because there's less risk involved and more profits.

He added that the demand for amphetamines is growing because there is less of a social stigma attached.

"Taking heroin and cocaine is largely perceived as deviant behavior so therefore there is significant social control. People are extremely afraid or ashamed of using those drugs," Calvani said. "In the case of amphetamines, there is significant tolerance in the community. Users are not deviant people, they are rigorous workers, rigorous students, who dope to perform better. They look for a quick fix."

Calvani said the best way to curb global amphetamine use is "international cooperation and understanding."

He added, "We are all in the same boat and we should talk to each other instead of finger pointing."

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Your Turn! Post a public comment (read guidelines):

Name:
Comment: (limit 200 words)
Enter this word (help):	Change

GUIDELINES: 
To keep this feature useful for all, please:

1. Keep it clean, courteous, and on-topic. Comments are meant for thoughtful discussion of the article published above.
   
   
2. Do not post promotional links to organizations, products or services, or personal requests for assistance (get help).
   
   
3. Proof your comments carefully, use good spelling and punctuation, and don't use ALL CAPS. Comments are published immediately and cannot be edited.

Deceptive, slanderous and commercially-motivated posts are prohibited. We reserve the right to remove comments not conforming to these guidelines. (Report a comment).

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.