The landscape of darknet marketplaces in 2024 has witnessed a slight shift, but Russian-language platforms continue to maintain their overwhelming dominance in the illicit drug trade conducted through cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and TRON. According to TRM Labs' latest 2025 Crypto Crime Report, Russian-speaking platforms have been the primary drivers of illicit drug sales, accounting for over 97% of total revenue in these cryptocurrencies. Despite facing significant challenges, including law enforcement crackdowns and the evolving risk environment, these platforms have not only managed to stay afloat but have also seen a slight increase in revenue compared to the previous year.

The overall market for darknet drugs in 2024 experienced a minor revenue bump, reaching over $1.7 billion, a positive note in an otherwise turbulent year for illicit activities. The report highlights that Russian-language markets have maintained their dominance, driven by a relatively favorable environment in Russia. Analysts suggest that the region's limited law enforcement intervention, coupled with a steady supply of cheap precursor chemicals from China, has created the ideal conditions for the continued success of these markets.

Unlike their Western counterparts, which have faced significant setbacks—such as the high-profile exit scam of the Incognito Market in March 2024—Russian platforms have largely remained stable. Four of the Russian-language platforms did shut down in 2024, but the analysts noted that these closures were voluntary, allowing users to withdraw their funds before the platforms went offline. This contrasts sharply with Western markets, where users have been left in the lurch following scams or sudden law enforcement actions.

The report further underscores the role of synthetic drugs in driving the success of Russian-language darknet platforms. The low prices and easy availability of precursor chemicals imported from China make it relatively cheap and easy to produce drugs for sale on these platforms. In fact, many of these platforms rely on dead drop delivery models to ensure safer transactions and avoid direct law enforcement intervention.

While the dark web remains a hub for illegal activity, Russian-language markets have displayed an uncanny resilience, continuing to profit from illicit drug sales and other illegal activities, despite the growing risks that other darknet markets have faced.