What is the first stage in the controlled substance trafficking cycle?

The first stage in the controlled substance trafficking cycle is production. This phase involves the cultivation, extraction, or synthesis of illegal drugs before they can be distributed or sold. During production, raw materials are transformed into a finished product that can be shipped through various channels. Understanding this foundational step is crucial, as it sets the stage for subsequent activities in the trafficking cycle, such as transportation, distribution, and retail sale. Without production, there would be no substances to transport, distribute, or sell, establishing its primary role in the overall process.