From Soda Bottles To Super Labs: An Analysis Of North America's Dual Methamphetamine Production Networks

Abstract

This article uses the global production network perspective to analyze the various actors involved in the production and distribution of methamphetamine in North America. The paper analyzes the organization and operation of the two dominant network typologies at work in the United States: small toxic labs and Mexican drug‐trafficking organizations. Particular emphasis is placed on how the networks have adapted to changes in the regulatory context in which they operate. I conclude with potential policy recommendations for curtailing methamphetamine production within both networks.

Key words:

• global production networks
• methamphetamine
• organized crime

Notes

1. As is the case with any broad characterization, there are exceptions to these typologies. What follows here is meant to be a description of the typical or most common networks in these categories.