Russian President Vladimir Putin. Photo courtesy of Anadolu.
MOSCOW, RUSSIA — Russian President Vladimir Putin signed decrees on Wednesday limiting the export of cash and gold as part of measures to fight capital flight and the shadow economy.
One decree bars individuals from carrying ruble cash exceeding the equivalent of $100,000 across the Russian border to Eurasian Economic Union countries, effective April 1, with specific exceptions.
A second decree prohibits the export of gold bars weighing more than 100 grams from May 1, 2026. Certain exemptions apply, and commercial banks are not affected.
Both measures were posted on the official government portal to inform the public and businesses.
Authorities noted that despite digitization efforts, demand for cash surged, resulting in a net outflow of about $13.2 billion from the banking system in January 2026, fueled by transactions moving into the shadow economy to avoid VAT and other taxes.
Deputy Finance Minister Alexei Moiseev said gold increasingly serves as a substitute for foreign exchange in illicit deals, driving money laundering and capital flight.
“Effective May 1, 2026, a ban is established on the export from the Russian Federation by individuals, legal entities and individual entrepreneurs of refined gold in bars with a total weight exceeding 100 grams.” the decree stated.
Cash exemptions are allowed only via designated international airports with proof of withdrawal from bank accounts. Gold exports are permitted through select airports with a permit from the Federal Assay Chamber or when sent by legal entities to non-EAEU countries.
