Mozambique: Government Reviews Anti-Money Laundering Measures

In Mozambique, the Council of Ministers, at its 31st ordinary session held on a Tuesday, reviewed the National Statistical Report on the Prevention and Combating of Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing, and the Financing of the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, covering the period from October 2025 to June 2026. This review by the highest executive body in the country indicates a high-level focus on national efforts to combat financial crimes. The report, as confirmed by Council spokesperson Inocêncio Impissa, pertains to a future period, suggesting a proactive assessment of planned measures or projected compliance outcomes rather than a retrospective analysis of past performance. The specific findings or outcomes of this review, beyond the fact that it occurred, are not detailed in the provided excerpt.

This development carries significant legal implications for practitioners and businesses operating within or engaging with Mozambique. It underscores the Mozambican government's sustained commitment to strengthening its anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) framework, aligning with international standards. For financial institutions, designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs), and other regulated entities, this signals continued regulatory scrutiny and the potential for evolving compliance obligations. The forward-looking nature of the report period (October 2025 to June 2026) is particularly noteworthy, suggesting a strategic approach to anticipating future challenges or preparing for upcoming international evaluations, such as those conducted by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) or the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG).

Mozambique, as a member of ESAAMLG, is bound by the FATF Recommendations, which serve as the global benchmark for AML/CFT. The country has implemented these standards through various legislative instruments, notably the Law on the Prevention and Combating of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (Law No. 14/2013, as amended), alongside numerous decrees and directives issued by regulatory bodies like the Bank of Mozambique. The Council of Ministers, comprising key government officials, is central to policy formulation and oversight of national implementation strategies. The key parties involved are therefore the Council of Ministers itself, represented by its spokesperson Inocêncio Impissa, and by extension, all governmental and private sector entities responsible for AML/CFT compliance under the national legal framework.

Attorneys and legal professionals advising clients with interests in Mozambique should therefore closely monitor any subsequent announcements, policy directives, or legislative amendments that may arise from this high-level review. It is imperative to ensure that clients' internal compliance programs are robust, up-to-date, and effectively address both current and anticipated AML/CFT requirements. Given the proactive nature implied by the report's future-dated period, businesses should prepare for potentially stricter enforcement, enhanced due diligence expectations, and increased reporting obligations. Proactive risk assessments, continuous training for staff, and regular reviews of compliance frameworks are essential to mitigate legal and reputational risks. The specific outcome of this Council of Ministers' review is not yet reported, but the event itself is a clear indicator of ongoing governmental focus on financial integrity.