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Russian-language darknet markets still dominate, driving 97% of Bitcoin and TRON drug sales


While Western darknet markets faltered, Russian platforms dominated Bitcoin and TRON drug sales, analysts at TRM Labs say.

Darknet marketplaces saw a slight revenue bump in 2024, bringing in over $1.7 billion, with Russian-language platforms still leading the way in crypto drug sales, analysts at blockchain forensic firm TRM Labs say.

New darknet markets and Monero-only proportion | Source: TRM Labs

In their latest 2025 Crypto Crime Report, the analysts pointed out that Russian-language marketplaces have been the main drivers of illicit drug sales, accounting for over 97% of overall revenue in Bitcoin (BTC) and TRON (TRX).

“Despite the many challenges faced by darknet marketplaces over the course of 2024, these platforms have nevertheless seen a slight increase of income compared to 2023, generating more than $1.7 billion.”

TRM Labs

The relative safety from law enforcement in Russia has allowed these marketplaces to flourish, the analysts say, adding that some platforms continue to use dead drop-based delivery models and rely on cheap precursor chemicals from China.

“[…] focus on synthetic drugs, and the wide availability and low price of drug precursor chemicals typically imported from China — have enabled Russian-language darknet marketplaces to thrive.”

TRM Labs

On the other hand, Western darknet markets had a rough year in 2024. With several exit scams and law enforcement crackdowns, trust in these platforms took a hit, especially after the Incognito Market exit scam in March.

Meanwhile, Russian-language markets stayed steady, with just four platforms leaving. Analysts point out that these platforms avoid exit scams, choosing instead to shut down voluntarily and let users withdraw their funds.



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