In a recent statement, Irena Segalovičienė, the State Auditor of Lithuania, expressed concern over proposals to increase the cash payment limit, stating that they lack thorough data to support such a change. She emphasized that any adjustments to cash transaction regulations must be carefully evaluated regarding their consequences on transparency in financial dealings, tax collection, and efforts to combat the shadow economy. Segalovičienė's remarks suggest that the current proposals might jeopardize existing control measures meant to uphold financial integrity.

The State Audit Office pointed out that Lithuania continues to lose a significant amount of Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue, with estimates for 2023 showing a collection shortfall of 15.1%, substantially above the EU average, which stands at around 10%. This alarming statistic underscores the need for a careful reevaluation of cash transaction limits, as high cash usage—accounting for about 60% of all payments in 2024—could exacerbate these financial losses, particularly since Lithuania has the highest cash transaction rate in the Eurozone.

Moreover, the debate over cash transaction limits is intensified by political discussions, including remarks from Remigijus Žemaitaitis, a leader in the Seimas, proposing to significantly increase the cash transaction threshold. However, the State Audit Office warns that such measures could undermine the stability of public finances and increase risks associated with financial malfeasance, reinforcing the call for policies that bolster transaction traceability instead of widening opportunities for unregulated financial exchanges.