6. NAFTA and the Expansion of Drug Trafficking
The implementation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994 significantly increased cross-border trade between the United States and Mexico. This surge in legitimate commerce inadvertently facilitated drug smuggling, as the heightened volume of goods crossing the border provided cover for illicit shipments. Additionally, the reduction in border inspections made it more challenging for law enforcement to detect and intercept drug traffickers. Consequently, Mexican cartels capitalized on these developments, leading to a substantial rise in drug-related violence and competition over smuggling routes. (vice.com)
