French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has called for the abolition of cash in the country in order to combat drug trafficking more effectively, French media reported on Thursday.
The minister made his proposal during a hearing before a Senate committee investigating financial crimes. According to him, introducing cashless payments alone would help eliminate drug distribution points, as it would be more difficult for criminals to evade financial controls.
However, journalists note that many French people are not yet ready to completely abandon cash. Although cards have already become the most popular payment method, used by 62% of citizens, compared to only 14% for cash, card payments exceeded the use of banknotes and coins for the first time in 2024.
Despite this, most French people still value the ability to pay with cash. According to the survey, 60% of respondents consider this option important. For them, it is a guarantee of anonymity, the convenience of instant payment and the best way to control their spending.
