Illicit tirzepatide trade in Paraguay and Brazil

A legal and criminal crisis has emerged regarding the illicit trade of tirzepatide, the active ingredient in weight-loss medications, across the border regions of Paraguay and Brazil.

In Paraguay, a criminal complaint was filed in Ciudad del Este by a U.S. entrepreneur against the pharmaceutical firm Indufar C.I.S.A. The lawsuit alleges fraud, breach of trust, and criminal conspiracy related to the development of a generic version of the drug, claiming losses exceeding $4 million. Concurrently, Ciudad del Este has emerged as a major hub for smuggling tirzepatide into Brazil, with customs seizures increasing tenfold compared to the previous year and black-market revenues estimated at $485 million. This surge has led to increased highway robberies targeting drug shipments.

In Brazil, the investigation into these activities, known as ‘Operação Off Label’, resulted in charges against eight individuals in Paraná. The Public Ministry of Paraná (MPPR) alleges a criminal scheme involving the illegal transport, storage, and sale of unregistered tirzepatide. The charges include criminal association and aggravated robbery. Notably, the investigation revealed that a retired civil police officer and a suspended active-duty officer were involved in coordinating the theft of medication shipments to be resold through local messaging groups.