Economic dependence of countries on the drug trade

Reducing the economic incentive to grow illicit drug crops has increased in international strategic importance over the past decade However, some countries are not party to the international conventions dealing with the control of narcotic drugs; others which are, do not necessarily have the means to fully comply. While strong law enforcement and advanced technology may greatly improve a nation's ability to destroy illicit crops, production in some areas is likely to continue unless reasonable economic alternatives are offered to those involved, from the farmers, to the dealers, to the government which may derive income from the drug growing activities.