Golden Triangle (Southeast Asia)

Golden Triangle Mekong at Doi Pu Khao 06

Golden Triangle (Southeast Asia)

The Golden Triangle is one of Asia's two main opium-producing areas. It is an area of around 950,000 square kilometers that overlaps the mountains of three countries: Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand. The name "Golden Triangle" was coined by the United States Department of State in the 1920s to describe the region's role in the global opium trade.

Geography[edit | edit source]

The Golden Triangle is located in the highlands of Southeast Asia, where the Ruak River and the Mekong River converge. The region is characterized by rugged terrain, dense forests, and a lack of infrastructure, which has historically made it difficult for governments to control.

History[edit | edit source]

The Golden Triangle has a long history of opium production. During the Vietnam War, the region became a major source of opium and its derivative, heroin, for the international market. Various ethnic groups, including the Shan, Hmong, and Wa, have been involved in the cultivation of opium poppies.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of the Golden Triangle has traditionally been based on the cultivation of opium poppies and the production of heroin. However, in recent years, there have been efforts to reduce opium production through crop substitution programs and other initiatives. Despite these efforts, the region remains a significant source of illicit drugs.

Current Issues[edit | edit source]

The Golden Triangle continues to be a major center for the production and trafficking of illicit drugs. The region is also plagued by issues such as human trafficking, armed conflict, and poverty. Efforts to address these issues have been complicated by the region's difficult terrain and the presence of various armed groups.