CANU launches National Early Warning System to detect emerging drug threats
The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) has formally launched Guyana’s National Early Warning System (EWS), a new mechanism aimed at strengthening the country’s ability to detect, assess, and respond to new psychoactive substances (NPS) and emerging drug threats.
According to CANU’s 2025 Public Briefing, the Early Warning System was launched this year as part of efforts to enhance Guyana’s national drug-control framework and align local responses with regional and international standards.
The Unit said the system is designed to support “rapid alerts, evidence-based interventions, and informed policy responses,” while improving national preparedness to address evolving drug trends.
CANU explained that the EWS integrates inputs from law enforcement, forensic services, health agencies, and analytical bodies, creating a coordinated structure to monitor and respond to new substances entering the illicit market.
The agency noted that the system “strengthens national capacity to detect, assess, and respond to new psychoactive substances and emerging drug threats,” positioning Guyana to respond more effectively to changes in trafficking patterns and substance use.
The introduction of the Early Warning System also places Guyana in line with “regional and international best practices,” as the country continues to deepen cooperation with external partners on drug monitoring, intelligence sharing, and capacity building.
CANU said the EWS will play a critical role as synthetic drugs begin to appear in small but increasing quantities locally, allowing authorities to track trends early and respond before threats escalate.
The launch of the National Early Warning System forms part of CANU’s broader 2025 strategy to move Guyana away from being a passive transit point and towards becoming a more active disruptor within regional drug-trafficking networks
