Title: New Sanctions on Libyan Arab Jamahiriya: Compliance Requirements for Directors and Company Secretaries
Maltese Registrar of Companies Issues Reminder on UN and EU Regulations
The Maltese Registrar of Companies has issued a notice regarding the latest UN and EU sanctions imposed on Libyan Arab Jamahiriya (LAJ). The following information outlines the key aspects of these regulations.
New Regulations for Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
- Legal Notice 69 of 2011 (Maltese)
- EU Council Regulation (EU) No 204/2011 (European Union)
These regulations target individuals, entities, and funds connected to the LAJ and can be accessed on the Maltese Financial Services Authority (MFSA) website.
Targeted Measures
The regulations aim to freeze assets and implement travel bans on the LAJ and designated individuals, affecting all sectors, not just the financial sector. The following professionals and individuals are subject to penalties:
- Lawyers
- Accountants
- Individual citizens
Criminal Offenses
Contravening these sanctions is considered a criminal offense, punishable by imprisonment and fines.
Immediate Asset Freeze
Anyone identifying and freezing assets belonging to designated individuals or entities must notify the Sanctions Monitoring Board at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
- Email: sanctionsmonitoringboard.mfa@gov.mt
- Regular Mail: Sanctions Monitoring Board, Ministry for Foreign Affairs and European Affairs, 10, Triq Il-Lobista, Valletta, VLT 1431, Malta
Obligations for Directors and Company Secretaries
Directors and company secretaries are required to freeze all assets belonging to designated individuals and entities, including:
- Shares
- Bonds
- Securities
- Related certificates
No transfers, assignments, disposals, liquidations, payments, or other alterations are permitted without prior authorization.
Complying with Sanctions: Caution and Vigilance
The MFSA strongly advises caution and vigilance regarding additional or new sanctions. Seeking professional guidance is encouraged to ensure compliance with the regulations.
MFSA Reference
MFSA Reference: 16-2011