The EU is now developing strict rules for carrying cash when traveling to non-European countries and returning to Europe. The revision of the First Cash Control Regulation from 2005, which stipulated that EU citizens should register cash in excess of € 10,000 when leaving the EU or when returning to the customs authorities have to, is what is under review. They want to lower the number and include gold, gemstones, and cash debit cards.
Interestingly, cryptocurrencies are not to be regarded as cash. Why? They are not sure how to detect them. The EU explanation reads: “Despite the high risk emanating from cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, these are not added to the cash. The reason for this is that the customs authorities lack the technical means to discover cryptocurrencies. “
The customs authorities can now seize any amount of cash less than € 10,000 if they suspect that the money is somehow involved in any criminal activity. This is authorizing the Civil Asset Forfeiture that has been so profitable to the United States. Hence, the EU does not clearly define what suspicion is required to classify as a possible criminal activity. That will be avoiding taxes.
The EU is also extending the new rules to any freight shipment involving cash. Already, one cannot send cash by mail. This is now freight shipments. A friend used the service where you can send your baggage ahead of you for a trip. He was called down and had to remove $2.75 cents that were in a suitcase headed back to London. So there is no amount too small.
The purpose of the rules is now openly being justified to fight against tax evasion, along with moonlighting and terror financing. The government clearly understands that cash is the only way for citizens to protect their savings from access by states and banks and any special levies or wealth taxes. Closing this door merely opens the door to cash investment turning to movable assets particularly shares.
