Seychelles Takes Step Towards Strengthening Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Terrorist Financing Efforts
Seychelles has undertaken an assessment of the risks and vulnerabilities in various sectors to further strengthen its efforts against money laundering (ML) and combating terrorist financing (TF). The National Risk Assessment (NRA) report highlights the importance of reviewing existing laws and regulations, strengthening anti-money laundering (AML) and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) supervision, and building capacity for ML/TF training.
Assessment of Sectors
Securities Sector
The NRA report found that the Securities Sector has a low ML threat due to its small size and robust AML framework. However, it is recommended that the sector review its existing laws and regulations to ensure they are in line with international standards.
Banking Sector
The Banking Sector received an overall rating of Medium for ML risk. The NRA report highlights areas for improvement, including:
- Strengthening compliance with international standards
- Enhancing effectiveness of supervision procedures and practices
- Improving availability and enforcement of administrative sanctions
A Risk-Based Approach (RBA) is recommended to strengthen AML/CFT supervision in the Banking Sector.
DNFBPs Sector
The DNFBPs Sector was found to have a medium-high ML threat due to its cash-intensive nature and high-risk reputation as an offshore haven. Recommendations for improvement include:
- Strengthening internal controls
- Increasing resources
Other Financial Institutions Sector
This sector was also found to have a medium-high ML threat due to its highly cash-intensive activities such as foreign exchange buying and selling, and remittance activities. Recommendations include:
- Adopting an RBA
- Strengthening internal controls and resources
Terrorist Financing Threats and Vulnerabilities
Seychelles has been assessed as a low-risk jurisdiction with no known terrorist groups or cells currently active in the country. However, there are concerns about the potential threat from neighboring countries such as Somalia, Madagascar, and Yemen.
Key Areas for Improvement
The NRA report highlights several key areas for improvement, including:
- Reviewing existing laws and regulations to ensure they are in line with international standards
- Strengthening AML/CFT supervision through the adoption of an RBA
- Increasing transparency and understanding on predicate offense to encourage filing of Suspicious Transaction Reports
- Building capacity and intensifying ML/TF training for staff
- Formalizing the AML/CFT Committee with highest-level representation and greater involvement from the private sector
Government Commitment
The government has committed to implementing these recommendations within a year, with detailed action plans in place.