TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s Customs Administration on Tuesday reported a rise in drug seizures at commercial ports, with the weight of confiscated drugs through October up 170% compared with the same period last year.

From January to October, authorities intercepted 421 cases, totaling more than 18,000 kg, including packaging. Of these, 392 were discovered independently by customs officers without prior intelligence, accounting for over 90% of the total, according to CNA.

Most of the seized substances were precursor chemicals for schedule 4 narcotics, weighing about 12,000 kg, followed by marijuana and methamphetamine. Smaller amounts of heroin and ketamine were also found.

Officials noted that traffickers often use express parcels and international mail, while 175 cases involved travelers carrying drugs across borders. Customs said the increase reflects the post-pandemic rebound in international trade and travel.

Certain substances, including schedule 2 drugs like etomidate and marijuana, and schedule 3 drugs like Salvia divinorum, are tightly controlled. Violators may face severe penalties under Taiwan’s Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act. Attempted offenses are also punishable.

As the year-end shopping and travel season approaches, customs officials said they will maintain enforcement operations, enhance interagency cooperation, and broaden international intelligence sharing. Members of the public are encouraged to provide concrete information related to smuggling activities.