30872 (2025). Hon Jenny Salesa to the Minister of Customs

30872 (2025). Hon Jenny Salesa to the Minister of Customs: Does the Minister agree with the Ministerial Advisory Group on Transnational, Serious and Organised Crime, March 2025 Report that, regarding illicit drugs, "In the past, there was a clear impact on consumption following major seizures, but this is no longer the case. That means we are not stopping enough to affect the market."; if not, why?

Hon Casey Costello: Criminal groups have become better resourced and more sophisticated. They are attempting to import significantly more illicit drugs to New Zealand than ever before. The New Zealand Customs Service has countered this by seizing increasing amounts of illicit drugs, both on and offshore, every year. More can always be done, and it is also important to focus on reducing demand.