Core Viewpoint - The Supreme People's Court of China is actively addressing the issue of new drug crimes in preparation for the upcoming National People's Congress, highlighting the importance of strict and fair judicial practices in combating drug-related offenses and ensuring public safety and welfare [1][4]. Group 1: Current Situation of New Drug Crimes - The number of drug cases in China has significantly decreased, with 23,732 drug cases concluded in 2025, marking an 82.93% decline from the peak in 2015 [4]. - New drug crimes are on the rise, with approximately 4,000 new drug cases concluded in 2023, and this number is expected to surge to about 14,000 in 2024, accounting for 39.1% of all drug cases [5]. - The structure of drug abuse is changing, with new drugs like etomidate surpassing traditional drugs like heroin in some provinces, indicating a shift in drug consumption patterns [5]. Group 2: Characteristics of New Drug Crimes - New drug cases are characterized by fluctuating growth and an increasing proportion of total drug cases, with new drugs becoming more prevalent as traditional drugs are effectively curtailed [5]. - The sources of involved substances are diverse, including smuggling from abroad and illegal production within the country, with medical institutions also being a source of abused drugs [6]. - New drugs often have strong concealment and disguise features, being sold in forms that resemble everyday products, which complicates enforcement efforts [6]. Group 3: Judicial Measures and Achievements - From 2023 to 2025, courts concluded 93,000 drug cases, with 133,000 defendants sentenced, including 27,000 receiving prison terms of five years or more, reflecting a strict approach to drug crime [10]. - The courts are implementing a dual approach of strict punishment and precise targeting, focusing on serious offenses such as trafficking and manufacturing new drugs [10]. - The Supreme People's Court has issued guidelines and case studies to enhance judicial responses to new drug crimes, ensuring consistent application of laws [12][13]. Group 4: Prevention and Governance - The courts are emphasizing a combination of punishment and prevention, issuing judicial recommendations to improve the regulation of medical drugs and enhance public awareness [14][15]. - Collaborative efforts with various departments are being strengthened to create a comprehensive governance model for drug-related issues, including initiatives to improve postal safety against drug trafficking [16].

Group 1 - The Supreme People's Court emphasizes a consistent stance on severely punishing serious drug crimes, with notable cases including the death penalty for repeat offenders and those exploiting their positions for drug trafficking [1][2] - There is a clear attitude towards legally punishing new types of drug crimes, with 7 new drug cases highlighted, the highest proportion in history, aimed at raising public awareness about new drug threats [1][2] - The court strengthens judicial protection for minors, with severe penalties for those who involve minors in drug-related activities, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding the health and growth of young people [2] Group 2 - The importance of comprehensive drug control measures is underscored, as it is seen as a fundamental strategy to eradicate drug crimes, with judicial recommendations aimed at addressing systemic issues in medical institutions [2]