Central Idea

A team from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is currently conducting a mutual evaluation in India.
India’s mutual evaluation report is expected to be discussed during the FATF plenary meeting in June 2024.

About Financial Action Task Force (FATF)

Foundation: FATF was founded in 1989 through the initiative of the G7 nations.
Secretariat: The FATF Secretariat is headquartered at the OECD headquarters in Paris, France.
Plenary Meetings: FATF conducts three Plenary meetings during each of its 12-month rotating presidencies.
Membership: As of 2019, FATF consists of 37 member jurisdictions.

Observer Status: India became an Observer at FATF in 2006, marking the beginning of its association with the organization.
Full Membership: On June 25, 2010, India officially became the 34th country to attain full membership in FATF, signifying its active participation and commitment to the organization’s objectives.

Review Framework: The mutual evaluation process is an essential mechanism through which FATF assesses a country’s legal and institutional framework to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. It also evaluates the country’s implementation of measures to prevent these financial crimes.
Compliance Assessment: During this process, FATF scrutinizes a country’s adherence to its 40 recommendations regarding anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing. It also evaluates the practical effectiveness of these measures.
Outcome and Rating: The outcome of the mutual evaluation is documented in a report. This report highlights the country’s strengths, identifies weaknesses, and suggests areas for improvement. A rating is assigned based on the level of compliance and effectiveness.

Comprehensive Assessment: FATF’s evaluation of India encompasses various aspects, including the nation’s legal framework, regulatory system, law enforcement efforts, and international collaboration.
Alignment with Global Standards: Central agencies in India have been actively working to ensure that the country’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws align with international standards and that their practical implementation is effective.

Report Impact: The evaluation results in a comprehensive report detailing India’s strengths, weaknesses, and areas requiring improvement. This report includes a rating based on compliance and effectiveness.
Global Anti-Financial Crime Efforts: The mutual evaluation process is a crucial tool in the worldwide fight against money laundering and terrorist financing.
Financial Implications: The outcome can significantly affect a country’s access to international financial markets and its standing in the global community.