South Carolina is an important participant in the process of importing controlled substances. Controlled substances are substances that are subject to regulation and control by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). South Carolina imports controlled substances such as opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, and anabolic steroids. These substances are imported from other countries to meet the demand in the state. The DEA works closely with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DEC) to ensure that the importation and distribution of these substances is done safely and legally. South Carolina also has stringent regulations in place to ensure that these substances are not misused, diverted, or mislabeled. Importation of controlled substances requires proper permits, registration, and documentation.