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 is recognized for its strong anti-corruption measures and a generally low prevalence of corruption, supported by strict penalties for bribery and active participation in international agreements aimed at enhancing transparency. However, the country faces challenges from organized crime, particularly in drug trafficking and human trafficking, while also contending with emerging issues such as cybercrime and financial fraud, which are exacerbated by its open economy.

New Zealand's economy and investment climate have experienced significant shifts following the recent political transitions, particularly with the National Party's victory in the November 2023 elections, which has led to a center-right coalition government focused on creating a more business-friendly environment. This new administration has swiftly repealed recent collective bargaining legislation and indicated plans to loosen foreign investment restrictions by 2024, amidst ongoing challenges such as sluggish GDP growth and high inflation exacerbated by global events like the war in Ukraine. While New Zealand maintains an open and transparent economy that encourages foreign investment, it imposes certain restrictions in sensitive sectors, and the government is committed to enhancing regulatory frameworks to foster competitive markets and protect property rights.