Bolivia Country Summary

FATF Status

Bolivia is no longer on the FATF List of Countries that have been identified as having strategic AML deficiencies

Compliance with FATF Recommendations

The last follow-up Mutual Evaluation Report relating to the implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards in Bolivia was undertaken in 2025. According to that Evaluation, Bolivia was deemed Compliant for 14 and Largely Compliant for 19 of the FATF 40 Recommendations. It remains Highly Effective for 0 and Substantially Effective for 1 of the Effectiveness ratings.

Bolivia faces significant challenges related to crime and corruption, with widespread issues in governance and law enforcement. Corruption is deeply entrenched, affecting the judicial system and public institutions, while criminal activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and illegal mining thrive amidst political interference and inadequate resources for law enforcement.

Bolivia's economy and investment climate present significant challenges for potential investors, characterized by a lack of substantial improvements in trade and investment conditions over the past year. The government's interventionist policies, particularly the nationalization of strategic sectors under the 2009 constitution, coupled with a weak judicial system and bureaucratic hurdles, create an uncertain environment for foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly from the United States. Despite opportunities in sectors like agriculture, energy, and mining, the country's fragile economic state, marked by low foreign reserves and high public debt, along with rampant contraband and inflationary pressures, further complicate the investment landscape.