A recent analysis highlighted that drug trafficking in Mexico has rapidly grown, becoming the third largest 'employer' in the country, according to research published in the British journal Science. This shift comes in the wake of the death of notorious drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho,’ which has led to increased violence and instability across the nation. In just two years, the narco industry has jumped from being the fifth largest employer to third, with approximately 183,000 Mexicans now reportedly working in this illicit sector.

The implications of this dramatic increase in employment within drug trafficking are profound. It underscores not only the expansive reach of cartels within the Mexican economy but also highlights the social and economic challenges faced by those in legal employment sectors. The power dynamics in Mexico have shifted significantly, with drug cartels now surpassing multinational corporations in terms of workforce size, signaling a troubling entrenchment of organized crime within the fabric of national employment.

As drug trafficking continues to play a crucial role in Mexico's economy, the continued rise of violence post-El Mencho's death raises concerns about public safety and governance. The findings suggest a critical need for comprehensive policies to address the root causes of cartel expansion and mitigate the growing influence of narcotics trade on society. This situation calls into question the effectiveness of current strategies employed by the Mexican government in combating drug-related crime and fostering legitimate economic growth.