Background & Purpose

Illicit metal trading and illegal waste management have become growing problems linked to organized crime networks in Sweden.

Proposals & Debate

During the autumn 2024 general private members' motion period, around 150 business policy proposals were submitted. Parliament decided to focus on stopping cash in the metal scrap industry while voting down other proposals.

The Decision

Parliament voted yes to demand that the government introduce a ban on cash for metal trading, and turned down all other related proposals.

Does this affect you?

  • Metal recycling companies: Must completely phase out cash payments and transition entirely to digital invoicing and receipts.
  • Scrap metal traders: Required to register all transactions digitally to verify the legitimate origin of the materials.

In Practice

  • Digital payment methods will become mandatory for transactions involving iron and scrap metal waste.
  • Authorities will find it much easier to track suspicious cash flows in the recycling industry.
  • Organized criminals will face greater difficulties profiting from stolen metals and illegal waste.