The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global standard-setter for anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT), released its latest public statements on October 24, 2025, following the conclusion of its Plenary meeting. The documents titled “High-Risk Jurisdictions subject to a Call for Action” and “Jurisdictions under Increased Monitoring” outline the FATF’s updated assessments of countries with strategic AML/CFT deficiencies.
High-Risk Jurisdictions: Call for Action
The FATF continues to identify Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), Iran, and Myanmar as high-risk jurisdictions subject to a call for action. These countries are considered to have significant strategic deficiencies in their AML/CFT frameworks and have not demonstrated sufficient progress in addressing FATF’s recommendations.
In line with the FATF’s guidance, member countries and other jurisdictions are urged to apply countermeasures and targeted financial sanctions, consistent with United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. Additionally, enhanced due diligence (EDD) is advised for all financial transactions and business relationships involving entities from these jurisdictions, with the level of scrutiny proportionate to the risks they present.
These measures aim to protect the integrity of the global financial system and prevent misuse of financial channels for money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing activities.
Jurisdictions Under Increased Monitoring
The FATF has also issued an updated list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring—commonly known as the “grey list.” These are countries that have committed to working with the FATF to address identified deficiencies through time-bound action plans.
The current list includes: Algeria, Angola, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Kenya, Lao PDR, Lebanon, Monaco, Namibia, Nepal, South Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, Vietnam, Virgin Islands (UK), and Yemen.
Importantly, the FATF announced that Burkina Faso, Mozambique, Nigeria, and South Africa have made sufficient progress in strengthening their AML/CFT regimes and have therefore been removed from the list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring. This reflects their continued commitment to improving financial transparency and international compliance.
Implications for Regulated Entities
The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) has noted that the FATF’s advisory statements do not prohibit legitimate trade and business transactions with the jurisdictions listed. However, regulated entities—such as banks, financial institutions, and intermediaries—are encouraged to adopt a risk-based approach and remain vigilant while dealing with entities or individuals associated with the high-risk and monitored countries.
Accessing FATF Statements
Detailed information on the FATF’s updated lists and recommendations can be accessed directly through the following official links:
- Jurisdictions under Increased Monitoring – October 2025
- High-Risk Jurisdictions Subject to a Call for Action – October 2025
About FATF
Established in 1989, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-governmental body comprising member jurisdictions and organizations committed to safeguarding the global financial system from illicit activities. The FATF develops international standards, monitors member compliance, and promotes the implementation of effective AML/CFT frameworks. The FATF Plenary, its primary decision-making body, meets thrice a year to review and update these statements.
The October 2025 update underscores FATF’s ongoing commitment to strengthening global financial integrity and supporting international cooperation against money laundering and terrorism financing.