While this information is from a site directing people to drug rehabilitation centers, it contains much factual information about the types and scope of drug trafficking in Texas, including the part which NAFTA played in expanding the volume of drug smuggling into the state.

Texas Drug and Alcohol Addiction Problems, Laws and Substance Abuse Issues, Treatment and Rehabilitation

The large area of Texas, vast array of highways, a long coastline, two international airports and a long border with Mexico has been ideal for the drug traffickers. Having a close border with Mexico has made Texas very vulnerable to drug trafficking. Numerous drug traffickers operate in the Texas panhandle. Drugs brought into the state are also distributed all over the nation. Despite the intense policing and security, drug trafficking remains a major problem for the state of Texas

Texas has been infiltrated with drug traffickers, mainly from the south of the border. In the past the drug trade was solely controlled by the Mexicans, but today the Columbians, Asians, Vietnamese and even the Chinese are fighting for their fair share of drug money. All types of illicit drugs are available and include methamphetaime, marijuana, cocaine and heroin.

Despite the increase in law enforcement and surveillance techniques, drug smuggling is at an all time high in Texas. The drug trade has also been associated with people smuggling across the border. The NAFTA treaty established more than a decade ago, has increased the daily cross border traffic and associated with it has been an increase in drug smuggling. Rural, desert-like areas in New Mexico and West Texas have provided a great opportunity for drug smugglers. The majority of drug smuggling is done at the El Paso/Juarez Corridor. Seizures indicate that large amounts of all illicit drugs are confiscated on a daily basis.

Drug traffickers also obtain warehouses in El Paso to hide their drugs and money and recruit “mulesâ€