Rising Money Laundering Detection in Sweden: Tullverket Reports Significant Increases
Sweden's Customs Agency reports a significant increase in detected money laundering activities based on new data.
Key Points
- • Tullverket detected 86 million kronor in money laundering cases in 2023.
- • This marks an increase from under 30 million kronor in 2024.
- • Less than 3 million kronor was reported in Q1 2025, indicating a recent detection decline.
- • Enhanced controls at EU exit points are credited for the recent rise in detections.
Tullverket, Sweden's Customs Agency, has reported a dramatic rise in the detection of money and valuables linked to money laundering in recent years. In 2023, authorities uncovered a total of 86 million kronor suspected of being associated with such criminal activities, a notable increase compared to just under 30 million kronor reported in 2024. This increase is highlighted by a stark drop in detected amounts to less than 3 million kronor during the first quarter of 2025, indicating a notable shift in the landscape of money laundering in Sweden.
The surge in detections is largely attributed to enhanced airport inspections and controls at exit points from the EU, which have facilitated the identification of illicit financial activities. Tullverket is also set to implement additional currency checks for travelers within the EU starting this fall, further strengthening their efforts in combating financial crime.
Stefan Granath from Tullverket has observed a significant change in the tactics of organized crime, noting that criminals are increasingly moving away from traditional methods, such as transporting cash in bags. This evolution suggests a need for ongoing adaptation in detection strategies to address shifting criminal practices.