Russia Imposes New Limits on Cash, Gold Exports

(MENAFN) Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed decrees restricting the movement of cash and gold outside the country, as part of a broader effort to tackle the shadow economy and reduce capital flight, according to official statements.

One of the decrees prohibits carrying ruble cash across Russia’s borders to countries in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in amounts exceeding $100,000 at the Bank of Russia exchange rate, starting April 1. Certain exceptions will apply under specific conditions.

A second decree bans the export of gold bars weighing more than 100 grams from Russia beginning May 1, though exceptions exist and commercial banks are not affected. Both measures were published on government portals, as stated by reports.

Despite official moves toward digital transactions, demand for cash has surged, with a net outflow of around $13.2 billion from the banking system in January 2026 alone. Officials attribute this largely to businesses operating in the shadow sector to evade rising value-added taxes and other levies.

According to statements from authorities, Russian Deputy Finance Minister Alexei Moiseev noted that gold has increasingly become a substitute for foreign currency in illicit dealings, contributing to 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 document states.

Cash export exceptions will only apply when funds are carried through designated international airports, and exporters must present bank statements or other documentation proving that the money was withdrawn from bank accounts as required by the government.

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