To strengthen cooperation with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Japan Coast Guard signed a Memorandum of cooperation on drug enforcement at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo on Friday, May 22, and exchanged views on the drug situation in both countries.

Overview of the Memorandum of Cooperation

(1)Date of Signing

Friday, May 22, 2026

(2)Venue

U.S.Embassy in Japan

(3)Signatories

Japan Coast Guard

Kanosue Hiroaki,
　Vice Commandant for Operation

Drug Enforcement Administration

David L. King,
　Special Agent in Charge Asia Pacific Division

(4)Summary

　Drug smuggling by sea has seen a marked increase in the volume of contraband and growing sophistication in methods, leading to suspicions of involvement by foreign criminal organizations.
　To effectively combat international organized crime, the Japan Coast Guard is strengthening its surveillance systems and collaborating with relevant agencies both in Japan and abroad.
　Against this backdrop, the Japan Coast Guard and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration signed a Memorandum of cooperation on drug enforcement cooperation at the U.S.
　Embassy in Tokyo to further strengthen collaboration between the two agencies in drug enforcement efforts. This agreement will facilitate the smooth sharing of information and mutual training on drug enforcement, which is expected to enhance the investigative capabilities of both agencies and strengthen their ability to combat international organized crime, including drug smuggling.
　In addition, the two agencies exchanged views on the activities of international criminal organizations and drug investigations.

Photo Gallery

Links

Signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation on Drug Enforcement between the Japan Coast Guard and the Drug Enforcement Administration~ Strengthening International Cooperation to Combat Drug Smuggling ~ (pdf:248kb)