Mauritius’ Financial Crime Enforcement Agencies: The Leading Force in Fighting Financial Crime and Terrorism

The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) was established in August 2002 under the Financial Intelligence and Anti-Money Laundering Act to combat financial crime and terrorism. As the central agency responsible for requesting, receiving, analyzing, and disseminating financial information on suspected proceeds of crime and alleged money laundering offenses, the FIU plays a crucial role in combating financial crimes.

Key Responsibilities

• Requesting, receiving, analyzing, and disseminating financial information on suspected proceeds of crime and alleged money laundering offenses
• Regulating anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT) in the real estate and jewelry sectors
• Supervising AML/CFT compliance in the three branches of the legal profession since May 2019

Additional Responsibilities

Since January 2016, the FIU has taken on additional responsibilities under the Asset Recovery Act 2011. As the Enforcement Authority, it established an Asset Recovery Investigations Division (ARID) to perform functions set out in the legislation and reports to the FIU Director.

International Cooperation

The FIU is a member of the Egmont Group of Financial Intelligence Units since 2003 and has forged strong relationships with other Egmont members and counterparts through numerous Memoranda of Understanding. The unit’s vision is to protect the integrity of Mauritius’ financial system and contribute to the safety of its citizens through deterrence of money laundering and terrorist financing.

Mission

The FIU’s mission is clear: to be recognized worldwide as an FIU that upholds international standards. Through its tireless efforts, the Financial Intelligence Unit remains at the forefront of fighting financial crime and terrorism in Mauritius, ensuring a safe and secure environment for its citizens and investors alike.