# Mexican cartel methamphetamine production in Africa > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mexican-cartel-methamphetamine-production-in-africa > Updated: 2026-09-30T12:37:11.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Mexican drug cartels, specifically the Sinaloa Cartel, have established industrial-scale methamphetamine production networks across Africa to target high-value markets in Australia and New Zealand. These operations utilize precursor chemicals sourced from China and India. In South Africa, authorities dismantled a laboratory near Swartruggens capable of producing five tonnes of crystal meth per month, with an estimated wholesale value of $1 billion in Australia. Investigations indicate that individuals posing as tourists have been used to set up these facilities, leveraging South Africa’s maritime connections and vast land areas for concealment. The criminal activity has expanded beyond South Africa into other African nations. In Nigeria, authorities dismantled laboratories in Ogun and Oyo states, resulting in the arrest of Mexican nationals. Similar arrests involving Mexican nationals and the seizure of precursor chemicals have also been reported in Maputo, Mozambique. Security analysts suggest that insecure borders and corruption risks across the continent facilitate the growth of these transnational networks. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-30: Mexican cartels expand methamphetamine production across Africa Mexican cartels are setting up industrial-scale methamphetamine labs across Africa, including South Africa and Nigeria, to supply high-priced markets in Australia and New Zealand. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mexican-cartels-expand-methamphetamine-production-across-africa ### 2026-09-25: Sinaloa Cartel uses South Africa for industrial methamphetamine production The Sinaloa Cartel is using South African laboratories to produce massive quantities of methamphetamine for the high-profit Australian and New Zealand markets. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sinaloa-cartel-uses-south-africa-for-industrial-methamphetamine-production --- Cite as: Mexican cartel methamphetamine production in Africa. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mexican-cartel-methamphetamine-production-in-africa