Financial Crime World

Dominican Republic Strengthens Financial Crime Regulations

The government of the Dominican Republic has issued a comprehensive policy statement aimed at preventing and combating money laundering and terrorism financing. This significant step strengthens the country’s financial crime regulations, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and protecting its financial system.

Key Aspects of the Policy Statement

National Committee against Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing

The National Committee against Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing is responsible for overseeing the implementation of anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) measures. The committee consists of several government agencies, including:

  • Public Ministry
  • Financial Analysis Unit (UAF)
  • National Directorate for Drug Control

Role of the UAF

The UAF plays a crucial role in analyzing and identifying suspicious financial transactions and submitting reports to the Public Ministry. Regulated entities are obligated to constantly evaluate and intensify their compliance efforts against money laundering and terrorist financing activities.

Compliance Requirements for Regulated Entities

To comply with AML/CTF regulations, regulated parties must:

  • Adopt a risk-based approach
  • Develop or review their compliance programs to include:
    • Evaluation of money laundering and terrorist financing risks
    • Capability to manage and mitigate risk
    • Client due diligence or enhanced due diligence
    • Continued monitoring
    • Maintenance of transaction registries
    • Designation of a compliance officer with determined functions and responsibilities

Reporting Suspicious Operations

Regulated entities must report suspicious operations to the UAF within five business days after the transaction occurred or was attempted. The UAF has published a guide to Obliged Subjects that allows entities to categorize transactions that may require closer examination.

The Dominican Republic’s financial crime policy statement aims to enhance transparency, prevent money laundering and terrorist financing, and protect the country’s financial system from illicit activities. By strengthening its regulations, the government demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a secure and transparent financial environment.