# France launches G7+ port security initiative to combat drug trafficking

- **Source:** https://pelavox.com/france-launches-g7-port-security-initiative-to-combat-drug-trafficking/
- **Publisher:** pelavox. (The voice of shipping)
- **Author:** Jason Nicholson
- **Published:** 2026-11-11T14:00:00+00:00
- **Updated:** 2026-11-10T09:26:56+00:00
- **Section:** Ports
- **Type:** News
- **Topics:** European Ports Alliance, France, G7+ Ports Network, Maritime Drug Trafficking, Port Security, Supply Chain Security

France has introduced a new international action plan against drug trafficking, placing maritime transport, port security and international logistics networks at the centre of its efforts to disrupt the movement of illicit narcotics.

The initiative, announced by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on November 9, 2026, includes the establishment of a G7+ Ports Network designed to strengthen cooperation between major international seaports and national authorities. The network brings together G7 countries and partners, including Brazil and the Republic of Korea, with the objective of improving coordination against trafficking through maritime trade routes.

According to the French government, approximately 70% of drugs entering European territory arrive by sea and through ports, highlighting the importance it places on maritime infrastructure in its international strategy. The newly established network is intended to operate in coordination with existing initiatives, including the European Ports Alliance, rather than replace current security arrangements.

## Maritime security and international cooperation

The action plan identifies international supply chains as a priority area for stronger enforcement, alongside measures targeting criminal financial flows and trafficking networks operating across multiple regions.

France plans to increase cooperation with countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, including projects aimed at strengthening port and airport security in areas associated with drug production and transit. In West Africa, the government is pursuing additional agreements covering maritime security and mutual legal assistance, while cooperation with other regions will focus on law enforcement and the disruption of trafficking networks.

French overseas territories in the Caribbean, Indian Ocean and Pacific are also identified as priority areas because of their exposure to international trafficking routes.

The government has also highlighted the role of maritime interdiction under Article 17 of the 1988 United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. The framework enables authorities to seek authorisation from flag states to board and inspect vessels suspected of involvement in narcotics trafficking on the high seas.

According to the ministry, approximately 20 such requests were processed in 2025, contributing to the seizure of more than 40 tonnes of narcotics, almost entirely cocaine.

France’s wider strategy also includes enhanced judicial cooperation, action against money laundering and measures to address emerging drug trafficking patterns.

French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot said combating drug trafficking would remain a priority of the country’s G7 Presidency, emphasising the need for international coordination.

For the maritime sector, the G7+ Ports Network represents an additional framework for cooperation between port authorities and governments as they seek to strengthen the security of global trade routes.

The announcement does not specify which individual ports will participate, the network’s operational timetable or whether additional inspection requirements will be introduced for commercial shipping.

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Cite as: "France launches G7+ port security initiative to combat drug trafficking", pelavox., 11 November 2026, https://pelavox.com/france-launches-g7-port-security-initiative-to-combat-drug-trafficking/