Some Sociological Aspects of the Illegal use of Narcotics in Hong Kong 1

Opium has been used for its euphoric and medicinal effects for many centuries in China. ² With the expansion of trade between Britain, India and China in the eighteenth century, however, the extent of smoking increased until it became a matter of imperial concern, both on account of its evil social effects and its cost in foreign exchange. In 1800, Emperor Kiaking forbade the importation and growth of opium, but this edict had no effect and the illicit trade continued to grow. In 1860, after the second ‘Opium War’, the importation was legalized, and remained legal until 1917. ³