President Fox is to sign legislation that will make Mexico one of the most permissive countries in the world when it comes to narcotics.
Users will be able to possess up to five grams of marijuana (the equivalent of about four joints), five grams of opium, 25 milligrams of heroin and 500 milligrams of cocaine — enough for a few lines.
Nor will they be prosecuted for possessing a few tabs of Ecstasy, small quantities of amphetamines or magic mushrooms, or even a kilo of so-called indigenous drugs such as the hallucinogenic peyote, a psychotropic cactus still used in shamanic rituals.
The Mexican Government says the legislation will allow the authorities to concentrate on fighting the violent drugs gangs that have turned several cities into war zones. But the Bush Administration fears it will encourage thousands of young Americans to head south as “drugs tourists”.
Cities such as Cancún, Tijuana and Acapulco are favourite destinations for US students seeking a good time in the sun.
A White House official said that American representatives met their Mexican counterparts this week to express opposition to the Bill.
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Two thirds of the cocaine smuggled into America now crosses the Mexican border
82 per cent of all steroids seized in the US originated in Mexico
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