While Albanians have tended to occupy only marginal roles in other forms of illicit drug trafficking, they are centrally involved in the production, importation, and distribution of marijuana. This involvement has probably served to separate the marijuana market from the distribution of more harmful drugs such as heroin and cocaine. In providing a relatively cheap and plentiful supply of marijuana, the involvement of Albanians may have diverted Italian users from the more expensive heroin and cocaine. In addition, drug trafficking in marijuana from Albania to Italy may have provided jobs, although the jobs are in the black economy. The authors pay particular attention to the involvement of Albanian migrants in Italy in illicit activities, including the drug economy. The role of Albanian criminal groups in drug trafficking is examined, and policy implications of the benefits of the near monopoly in marijuana held by Albanian drug traffickers are discussed. 38 references and 3 notes