
Cocaine in France in 2025: increase in consumption and key figures
Cocaine in France: a confirmed increase in consumption and multiple issues
Cocaine use continues to increase in France, as confirmed by several recent studies, including those by the French Observatory of Drugs and Addictive Trends (OFDT). This trend raises significant challenges, both in terms of public health and in the world of work. Here is an overview of the key figures and avenues for action to consider.
1. Key figures: a constant increase
- 5.6% : this is the proportion of the adult population in France who say they have already tried cocaine at least once in their life, according to the latest OFDT surveys (compared to around 3% ten years earlier).
- 2.5% : estimated share of adults who used cocaine in the last 12 months, or several hundred thousand people.
- Increase among young people : among 18-25 year-olds, the experimentation rate can exceed 8% , reflecting a rapid democratization of this substance previously perceived as “reserved” for more affluent backgrounds.
Price and accessibility
- Average price : a gram of cocaine is sold for between 60 and 80 euros, with prices dropping to 40 euros in some regions and reaching over 100 euros elsewhere. This relative stability or slight drop contributes to increased accessibility.
- Developed sectors : despite record customs seizures (more than 27 tonnes seized in 2022, according to official estimates), supply remains abundant thanks to well-structured international networks.
2. The professional world also affected
Although there are few official surveys specifically devoted to cocaine use in the workplace, several polls and field observations point to a worrying trend:
- 1 to 3% of employees (according to various unofficial sources) admit to having already used cocaine during or just before their working hours.
- Sectors under pressure : particularly demanding sectors (finance, catering/hotels, events, etc.) appear more exposed, although the phenomenon affects all sectors.
- Motivations : the search for performance, productivity or stress relief are frequently mentioned. However, in the medium and long term, this consumption can lead to chronic fatigue, mood disorders and work accidents.
3. Factors explaining the increase
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Democratization of the product
Once considered an expensive drug, cocaine has seen its average price stabilize or even fall, making it more accessible to a diverse audience across the country. -
Influence of pace of life and stress
In a society where professional and social pressure is high, some people turn to stimulants in order to “keep going” or increase their activities. -
Unmarked image
Cocaine, in certain party or professional circles, benefits from an image of “booster” or “performance aid”, masking its real risks to physical and mental health.
4. Prevention and support issues
Information and awareness
- General public : increase the number of prevention campaigns (posters, social networks, interventions in schools and universities) to remind people of the cardiovascular, neurological and psychological risks linked to cocaine.
- Professional environments : adapt these messages and relay precise information on the impact of drugs on alertness, safety and productivity.
Training of professionals
Occupational health services and HR managers are encouraged to train themselves to identify signs of consumption and propose concrete actions (referring to an addiction specialist, raising awareness among all staff, etc.).
In this context, our company offers training courses specially designed for players in the professional world . These training courses allow:
- To quickly identify risky behaviors and signs of possible consumption.
- To master good practices in prevention and awareness.
- To establish protocols for support and referral to appropriate care or support structures.
Screening and monitoring tools
- Saliva and urine tests : in some companies, these checks (carried out in compliance with the legal framework) can help to quickly identify problematic situations.
- Listening devices : offering a confidential space (company nurse, psychologist, HR representative) is often crucial to encourage the employees concerned to express themselves and receive appropriate support.
5. In summary
The rise in cocaine consumption in France is characterized by an increase in all levels of society, including in the workplace, where the search for performance and stress management can encourage the use of this stimulant. The key figures clearly indicate a rapid democratization of cocaine, both in terms of price and availability. To address this phenomenon, the implementation of prevention, information and targeted training actions is essential.
Useful references:
- OFDT – French Observatory of Drugs and Addictive Tendencies
- [Internal surveys and company polls (unofficial sources)]
- [Addiction Treatment, Support and Prevention Centers (CSAPA)]
By developing appropriate approaches and raising awareness among both the general public and those in the professional world, it is possible to better prevent cocaine abuse and support those affected towards sustainable solutions.