Taiwan confronts surge in drug-driving as new narcotics rapidly emerge
“Zombie vapes”, online dealers and new, unlisted narcotics. CNA examines how deadly drug-driving cases are a visible sign of a much wider drug problem in Taiwan.
Taiwan, celebrated for stringent drunk-driving laws, now faces a new menace: drug-driving. Police have implemented roadside screenings, utilizing saliva tests to detect illicit substances such as etomidate, a depressant commonly used through e-cigarettes. Cases of drug-driving surged from 43 in 2021 to 8,659 in 2025, leading to 19 deaths and 229 injuries that year.
Etomidate, originally an anesthetic, is known as the "zombie vape" due to its side effects, including dizziness, nausea, and involuntary movements. Penalties for offenses involving etomidate have been tightened. New substances emerge rapidly, posing a challenge to authorities, who identify and classify them before deciding on regulation.
Over 90% of drugs in Taiwan originate from overseas, arriving through various means. Meanwhile, drug use and addiction are on the rise, with arrests for drug-related offenses increasing by 25%, especially among young people. Treatment centers strive to aid patients in reintegrating into society, but the risk of relapse remains a significant concern.
Written by urgent.news from Channel News Asia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
