ISLAMABAD: The federal government has decided to further tighten oversight of businesses dealing in precious metals, including gold, as part of broader efforts to strengthen measures against money laundering and terrorist financing.
In this regard, the decision indicates Pakistan’s continued commitment to strengthen its anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) framework in line with international standards. In this regard, the increased monitoring will focus not only on the trade of gold and other precious metals but also on real estate agents, dealers, and other individuals and entities associated with high-value transactions.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Finance stated that all designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs) will be subject to more effective and structured supervision to prevent their misuse for illicit financial activities.
These sectors have been identified as vulnerable due to the volume of cash-based transactions and the potential for concealment of illegal funds.
Moreover, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has implemented a new monitoring system aimed at curbing trade-based money laundering. The system is designed to strengthen checks on trade transactions and improve coordination among regulatory and enforcement agencies.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has previously noted that Pakistan faces risks related to trade-based money laundering, underlining the need for sustained reforms and vigilant oversight. In response, authorities are working to enhance data sharing, risk assessment, and enforcement mechanisms across relevant institutions.
The National Risk Assessment (NRA) report is expected to be shared with relevant stakeholders by March 2026. The report will provide a comprehensive evaluation of money laundering and terrorist financing risks across sectors and guide future policy actions.
Additionally, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) established a Central Beneficial Ownership Registry in July 2025.
This registry will be made fully accessible online to financial institutions and law enforcement agencies by January 2026, improving transparency and helping authorities identify the ultimate owners of corporate entities.
However, the Finance Ministry officials also recalled that Pakistan was removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2022 after completing required action plans. \
They focused on the fact that the government continues to implement FATF recommendations to ensure sustained compliance and to safeguard the integrity of the financial system.
The authorities confirmed their commitment to maintaining financial stability, promoting transparency, and preventing the misuse of Pakistan’s financial and commercial sectors for illegal activities.
