French Customs has recently unveiled an ambitious new strategy to combat money laundering and terrorist financing (ML/TF). Announced on October 7 at Bercy, this strategy aligns with the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the national strategy against illicit financial flows, aiming to enhance customs officers’ effectiveness in addressing this complex challenge.

At the heart of this new approach, Customs focuses on closely monitoring money flows linked to criminal activities such as drug trafficking, counterfeiting, and trafficking of protected species. In response to these threats, Customs’ intervention capabilities have been expanded through Law No. 2023-610. This legislation allows customs officers to detect money laundering offenses during the transport phase, including those involving digital assets such as cryptocurrencies, which are now under scrutiny.

Additionally, the role of the National Directorate of Customs Intelligence and Investigations (DNRED) has been strengthened. In collaboration with the Cyber Customs department, it targets criminal financial flows, including those operating via cryptocurrencies on the Dark Web. This operational reinforcement is supported by the creation of the National Anti-Fraud Office (ONAF) in May 2024, which works with international agencies like Europol to identify and seize criminal assets.

Customs is also investing in innovation to enhance its detection capabilities. For instance, the development of specialized handler-dog teams, nicknamed “cash-dogs,” has improved the tracking of cash flows within the country. Furthermore, increased collaboration with specialized judicial bodies, such as JIRS and JUNALCO, intensifies efforts against transnational fraud, particularly those involving crypto assets.

The results achieved in 2023 and 2024 are promising. In 2023, Customs seized or identified over €163 million in criminal assets. By 2024, this amount has significantly risen to €175.2 million, thanks to enhanced monitoring of cross-border financial flows.

This new strategy reflects a commitment to safeguarding the country’s financial security and addressing growing threats posed by criminals. With these enhanced capabilities, Customs aims to strengthen its central role in protecting citizens and the integrity of France’s economic borders.