The share of cash payments in Russia has grown to 30%, partly due to constant internet outages.

In April, this figure increased. by 5% Compared to the same period last year, according to data from the OFD Platform. According to the results of the first quarter of 2026, the share of cash payments also increased—28% versus 26% a year ago.

Cash payments are now most often made in the construction and repair industries, food sales, as well as in the hotel industry, entertainment centers and car repair shops. up to 35% consumers.

Experts attribute this trend to mobile internet outages and rising costs of cashless payments for businesses—acquiring services will be subject to VAT starting in 2026. For small businesses, especially those in low-margin categories, bank fees of 1-3% of the receipt amount are becoming significant, stimulating a shift to cash payments.

At the same time, the growing share of cash is raising concerns among economists due to the risk of expanding the shadow economy. Increased cash turnover creates conditions for "no-receipt" practices, partial revenue accounting, and other tax evasion schemes, especially in segments with a large number of small businesses.

Russians also trust cash more when it comes to saving. NeMoskva previously reported that 15% of Russians keep all their money in cash—they distrust banks for fear of account freezes.

From May 1 to May 11 alone, the amount of cash in Russian hands increased by 210,5 billion — this is a record since 2011. Compared to last year, demand for cash has grown almost fivefold, RBC found based on data from the Bank of Russia.