French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin, 42, has suggested that a presidential bid — something he is already preparing for ahead of France’s 2027 election — could offer a platform for launching a wider discussion on national issues.
According to a 2023 report from the French Senate, the country’s illegal drug trade is estimated to generate between €3.5 billion and €6 billion annually. Much of this revenue comes from small, everyday cash transactions involving low-denomination bills. Darmanin noted that the French government recovers only a fraction of that total — just a few million euros each year. He emphasized that alternative payment methods, including cryptocurrency, are often easier for authorities to trace.
A prominent figure on the right, Darmanin previously served as interior minister before taking over the justice portfolio in December. Throughout his tenure in both roles, he has consistently championed tough-on-crime policies. In a recent interview with RTL, he also endorsed using facial recognition technology in public areas to help police identify wanted individuals.
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