France’s Minister of Justice, Gérald Darmanin, has proposed a complete phase-out of cash in the country as a measure to fight drug trafficking. He made the suggestion during a Senate committee hearing on financial crime investigations, according to BFMTV.
Darmanin believes that switching entirely to cashless payments could significantly hinder the operations of drug dealers. In his view, a digital payment system would prevent criminals from hiding from financial oversight. However, as the network notes, many French citizens are not yet ready to give up cash entirely. Although the use of cash is gradually declining, it remains important for many.
According to a 2024 study by the Bank of France, payment cards have, for the first time, surpassed cash as the primary method of payment — 62% versus 14%. Still, 60% of respondents consider the ability to pay in cash important or very important.
The main advantages of cash, according to French citizens, include anonymity (40%), instant transactions (37%), and better control over spending (31%).
