Since heroin is such a hot topic and is illegal to use in the US. Where does it come from?

Question

I’ve read and heard contradicting information regarding opium and heroin. I don’t understand, where is this drug coming from? I had a life-long friend found dead in alley in Vancouver BC due to an apparent overdose. I’ve never used. I read that opiates may be coming from Afghanistan or from Mexico(primarily). My research doesn’t come up with much; what am I missing? These substances have a genetic imprint, where are they from?

In: Biology

Answer 1

I don’t know about Canada, but “the bulk of heroin consumed in the United States has been traced to Mexico”[(ref)](https://fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R44599.pdf ). The Middle East just seems a lot farther away, and shipping costs would tend to favor a closer source.