Gabon Country Summary

FATF Status

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

Compliance with FATF Recommendations

The last Mutual Evaluation Report relating to the implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards in Gabon was undertaken in 2023. According to that Evaluation, Gabon was deemed Compliant for 3 and Largely Compliant for 12 of the FATF 40 Recommendations. It was deemed Highly Effective for 0 and Substantially Effective 0 with regard to the 11 areas of Effectiveness of its AML/CFT Regime.

Gabon faces significant challenges related to crime and corruption, with a pervasive culture of impunity undermining efforts to address these issues. While the government has established some frameworks to combat corruption, such as the Commission to Combat Illicit Enrichment, enforcement remains weak, and high-profile cases are rare, contributing to a widespread perception of endemic corruption within the political system.

In terms of criminal activity, Gabon is a hub for human trafficking and counterfeit goods, with illegal logging and wildlife crimes exacerbated by corruption. The judicial system struggles with limited capacity and is often perceived as serving the interests of the elite, while civil society organizations work to combat organized crime despite facing restrictions and intimidation.

Gabon presents a complex economic and investment climate characterized by its rich natural resources and strategic location, yet marred by recent political instability following a military coup in August 2023. The new government, led by President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, has prioritized economic reforms aimed at restoring investor confidence and diversifying the economy, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas, mining, and agribusiness. Despite these efforts, challenges persist, including bureaucratic inefficiencies, corruption, and inadequate infrastructure, which continue to hinder foreign direct investment and overall economic growth, although the economy showed signs of recovery with a growth rate of 2.9% in 2024.