The Law of Un-Intended Consequences? Bolivian President Arce declares “coca is not cocaine” as country expands coca industry

That’s 2 south american presidents in as many weeks making coca / cocaine statements post Trump comments on “drugs” coming into the US.

First was this

He’s Just Using The Trump Playbook & It’s Worked, “Colombia’s president: Legalize cocaine, it’s no worse than whiskey”

and now this

Bolivian President Luis Arce reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to the legal uses of coca leaf, claiming that ‘it is not cocaine.’ During the National Acullico Day event in La Paz on January 11, Arce highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to industrialise coca products, while acknowledging that the leaf’s misuse by international drug cartels remains a significant problem.

Arce’s message to the crowd was clear: ‘Coca is not cocaine,’ a stance that has been central to Bolivia’s narrative in global debates over the leaf’s legal status. Despite its cultural, medicinal, and nutritional benefits, coca leaves are still often sold to criminal organisations, which turn it into cocaine hydrochloride through a lengthy chemical process. ‘The government will never support the misuse of coca for illegal purposes,’ Arce said. He also announced the progress of the Kokabol plant in Sacaba, Cochabamba, which is set to begin operations in July 2025, transforming coca into products like infusions, pharmaceuticals, and candies.