The VFSC organised a well-attended industry workshop on 17 June at the Ramada Resort in Port Vila, in anticipation of the APG Mutual Evaluation later this year.
The event saw strong participation from Financial Dealers Licence (FDL) holders and other key professional services, with more than 100 representatives, including local directors, compliance officers, and governance experts, attending a practical, hands-on session on AML/CFT regulatory readiness.
The event emphasised concrete implementation rather than theory, highlighting the importance of industry and regulators speaking the same language on risks, opportunities, and effective compliance. Participants left with clearer understanding of expectations for the Mutual Evaluation, shared responsibility across the ecosystem, and actionable steps to strengthen Vanuatu’s AML/CFT framework.
This mobilisation underscores the sector’s commitment to protecting the jurisdiction’s integrity and long-term credibility through hands-on collaboration.
Presentations from the Workshop:
Timelines for the 2026 Mutual Evaluation
This presentation offered a clear project roadmap outlining key milestones for Vanuatu’s Mutual Evaluation process. Highlights included risk & context analysis (Q1 2026), APG scoping activities, effectiveness reporting, mock exercises, the National AML Conference, and the APG on-site visit.
Comparative Ratings and PNG Case Study
A compelling regional perspective was offered through comparative APG Mutual Evaluation ratings (November 2024) and a detailed PNG case study. The presentation illustrated the critical importance of effectiveness over pure technical compliance and the real risks of insufficient measurable outcomes.
Immediate Outcomes (IOs) Presentation
A core part of the day was dedicated to the FATF’s 11 Immediate Outcomes, with in-depth coverage of IO1 (Risk, Policy & Coordination), IO2 (International Cooperation), IO3 & IO4 (Risk-Based Supervision), IO5 (Legal Persons & Beneficial Ownership), and IO10/IO11 (Targeted Financial Sanctions). Interactive quizzes reinforced how policies translate into real-world results.
METT Master Playbook: The Response Matrix
Finally, the workshop featured the METT Master Playbook, providing practical “Rating Traps,” suggested responses, and evidence anchors across major Immediate Outcomes. This tool equips industry and authorities with ready strategies for demonstrating effective implementation.
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