Guyana highlights major AML/CFT progress at Regional CFATF Summit

Guyana has reported a series of advancements in its anti–money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) framework during the 61st Plenary and Working Groups Meetings of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), held from November 24 to 28, 2025, in Bridgetown, Barbados.
During the meeting, Guyana presented its First Enhanced Follow-Up Report, outlining ongoing progress since the country’s Fourth Round Mutual Evaluation. Among the updates were the launch of the Third National Risk Assessment, planned sectoral risk assessments, strengthened oversight of virtual asset service providers – including an extension of the existing prohibition – and improvements to mutual legal assistance procedures.

Other developments highlighted included continued implementation of risk-based supervision, legislative work on a draft trust bill, improved compliance within the company register, upgraded targeted financial sanctions processes, expanded investigative and prosecutorial capacity for money laundering and terrorist financing offences, and increased asset recovery efforts. Guyana also noted that preparations are underway to chair ARIN-CARIB in 2026, supported by strengthened national coordination and public engagement.
The national delegation included senior representatives from several key agencies, including Dr Gobind Ganga of the Bank of Guyana; Matthew Langevine of the Financial Intelligence Unit; Navindra Datt Prashad of the Guyana Revenue Authority; Deputy Commissioner Fazil Karimbaksh of SOCU; Deputy Solicitor General Shoshanna Lall; Rommel St Hill of the Ministry of Legal Affairs; Jimmy Reece of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission; Natasha Backer from the Office of the DPP; Melissa Smith of the Guyana Gold Board; Alanna Lall of the Guyana Securities Council; Victor Herbert of the Gaming Authority; and Visal Satram of the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Guyana reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening its AML/CFT/CPF regime and expressed appreciation to the CFATF Secretariat and the Government of Barbados for their support during the meetings.