New Zealand Country Summary

FATF Status

New Zealand is not on the FATF List of Countries that have been identified as having strategic AML deficiencies

Compliance with FATF Recommendations

The latest Mutual Evaluation Report relating to the implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards in New Zealand was undertaken in 2021. According to that Evaluation, New Zealand was deemed Compliant for 8 and Largely Compliant for 20 of the FATF 40 Recommendations. It was deemed Highly effective for 2 and Substantially Effective for 4 of the Effectiveness & Technical Compliance ratings.

New Zealand demonstrates a strong commitment to combating corruption and maintaining the integrity of its public institutions through effective laws and practices that ensure transparency and accountability. While the country faces some challenges related to human trafficking, drug trafficking, and cybercrime, it benefits from a stable political environment, an effective judiciary, and active civil society engagement that bolster its resilience against crime.

New Zealand's economy is currently navigating challenges following the election of a center-right coalition government in October 2023, which has initiated significant reforms aimed at stimulating growth and attracting foreign direct investment. The government has implemented measures such as expanding investor visa allowances and establishing the "Invest New Zealand" agency to streamline the investment process, although the country is still grappling with recessionary pressures, faltering business investment, and high inflation. Despite these hurdles, there are signs of a potential economic recovery, bolstered by personal income tax cuts and improved business and consumer confidence, indicating a gradual shift towards a more favorable investment climate.