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Rwanda’s National Bank Issues New Regulation to Govern Trust and Company Service Providers
Kigali, Rwanda - In a move aimed at enhancing financial stability and integrity, Rwanda’s central bank has issued its first-ever regulation governing trust and company service providers (TCSPs). The new law, effective September 1, requires anyone intending to provide such services to obtain a license from the National Bank of Rwanda.
What are Trust and Company Service Providers?
The regulation defines TCSPs as individuals or entities that provide various services including:
- Corporate formation agent services
- Trust administration
- Registered office services
- Nominee shareholder services
These service providers will now be required to meet strict criteria to ensure they operate in a transparent and secure manner.
Licensing Requirements
To obtain a license, applicants must:
- Have a permanent establishment in Rwanda
- Operate from business premises with adequate logistics and staff
- Demonstrate an internal compliance system that ensures adherence to applicable laws and regulations
Licensed TCSPs will also be required to:
- Maintain professional indemnity insurance
- Pay an annual fee of one million Rwandan francs
Additional Requirements
The regulation mandates licensed TCSPs to:
- Adhere to anti-money laundering and counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) laws and regulations
- Submit quarterly regulatory reports on their financial activities
A one-year moratorium has been granted for law firms and accounting firms that have been providing trust and corporate services prior to the entry into force of the regulation.
Benefits
The new regulation is expected to enhance Rwanda’s financial sector by promoting transparency and reducing the risk of money laundering and terrorist financing.