Riksbank proposes 10,000 SEK limit on cash payments

The Swedish Riksbank has proposed a limit of 10,000 SEK for cash transactions in retail to combat money laundering and tax evasion. This proposed threshold is significantly lower than the EU limit of 10,000 EUR, which is set to take effect in 2027. While the Swedish Ministry of Finance intends to stick closer to the EU standard, Riksbank Governor Erik Thedéen argues that a 10,000 SEK limit provides a balanced approach to crime prevention without disrupting a largely digital economy.

In Denmark, the cash limit is currently 15,000 DKK. The Riksbank notes that cash purchases exceeding 10,000 SEK account for less than 1 percent of all retail transactions in Sweden. The proposal also includes a provision allowing the government to temporarily suspend the limit during crises where cash may be the only viable payment method.

This discussion occurs alongside recommendations from the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency for households to keep 1,000 SEK in cash per adult to cover essential goods during potential crises or war.