Abuse of ketamine is becoming more problematic. Although not under international control it is no longer limited to a specific area and is a problem throughout the region. Users are the rise especially in Hong Kong. Eighty-five percent of drug users under 21-years-old use ketamine but at the same time the smuggling and trafficking is also on the rise. China is strengthening its control on ketamine. In china it is a category 1 “strictly controlled” substance.

Hydrochloride is also listed as category 1 precursor. 48 countries and regions have said they have already put ketamine under control. Putting it under international control would not limit “legitimate” use. China appealed to international community to raise awareness of ketamine use.