2025 National Drug Threat Assessment (NDTA) - Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has released its 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment (NDTA), providing an overview of the threats posed by illicit drugs and the transnational criminal organizations involved in their production and trafficking. The report highlights the continuing impact of synthetic drugs, particularly fentanyl and methamphetamine, on public health, public safety, and national security.

While overdose deaths in the United States have declined significantly over the past year, synthetic drugs remain the leading driver of drug-related fatalities. The report also underscores the role of Mexican cartels and their international networks in sustaining the supply of illicit synthetic drugs through complex production, trafficking, and distribution systems.

Overall, the assessment emphasizes the importance of continued collaboration across public health, education, law enforcement, and community sectors to address the evolving drug threat and reduce drug-related harms.