https://www.qatar-tribune.com/article/208835/business/qatar-ramps-up-anti-money-laundering-systems-with-new-fiu-led-programme

Qatar Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has concluded its third workshop on anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism financing, and the prevention of arms proliferation, with more than 325 participants from national authorities, the private sector, and regional and international experts.

The three-day event highlighted the growing institutional awareness of financial crimes and the need for enhanced national measures amid rapidly evolving methods in money laundering, terrorism financing, and arms proliferation.

The workshop forms part of Qatar’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its preparedness for upcoming international evaluations by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), reflecting the country’s commitment to implementing global standards for effective anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems.

Specialized presentations and discussions focused on national risks, emerging threats, and operational challenges. Sessions covered the misuse of financial technology, the exploitation of legal entities, and new trends in terrorism financing, while smaller working groups provided a platform to share best practices and coordinate priorities across agencies.

The FIU, as Qatar’s designated national authority for financial intelligence, emphasized its pivotal role in collecting and analysing financial data and fostering international cooperation through secure information exchange channels. Participants noted that strengthening the FIU’s capabilities is essential for detecting suspicious activity, supporting financial investigations, and enhancing the overall effectiveness of anti-financial crime measures.

The workshop also explored the links between operational risks and emerging threats, underscoring the need to develop new methodologies and prepare national entities to tackle future challenges.

Experts stressed that enhanced coordination and robust compliance systems in the public and private sectors, particularly in financial institutions and fintech companies, will fortify Qatar’s financial environment.

The FIU confirmed that recommendations arising from the workshop will guide improvements in national compliance frameworks and inter-agency collaboration, further supporting Qatar’s standing within the international financial crime prevention community.