The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has officially recognized Egypt’s experience
as one of the international best practices in balancing financial inclusion with adherence
to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) standards The recognition
was highlighted in FATF’s updated Guidance on Financial Inclusion and AML/CFT Measures, released
in June 2025 This milestone underscores Egypt’s leadership in financial reform, spearheaded by the
Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) in collaboration with the Egyptian AML/CFT Unit, demonstrating how
regulatory innovation can expand access to finance while preserving financial integrity
Who is FATF and Why This Recognition Matters
Established in 1989 and headquartered in Paris, the FATF is a 40-member intergovernmental
body that sets international standards to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and the
financing of proliferation of weapons Its guidelines influence national regulations and global
compliance practices across all financial systems By featuring Egypt’s approach as a model for
other countries, the FATF affirms that inclusive financial systems can and must coexist with
robust financial crime controls
CBE’s Balanced Approach: Inclusion with Integrity
According to the FATF Guidance, the CBE has played a pivotal role in designing
and implementing comprehensive regulatory frameworks that support equitable access
to financial services, while maintaining strict AML/CFT compliance. These efforts have
helped economically empower underserved populations without compromising the safety
and transparency of Egypt’s financial system
Among the most impactful CBE initiatives
Simplified customer due diligence (CDD) for individuals and micro-enterprises
Opening bank accounts for youth (ages 15+), craftsmen, and freelancers using national ID only
Allowing banking agents to verify customer identity, expanding financial outreach
Development of tailored financial products for women, youth, and people with disabilities
Advancing Digital Financial Inclusion in Egypt
In line with Egypt’s national digital transformation strategy, the CBE has advanced
digital financial inclusion by
Promoting the adoption of e-wallets and prepaid cards
Issuing licensing and regulatory frameworks for digital banks
Supporting remote access to financial services, especially in underserved areas
These digital policies are designed to bridge the financial access gap, especially in rural
regions, while ensuring all digital channels meet security and compliance standards
Strengthening Egypt’s Financial Infrastructure
The CBE’s vision also includes strengthening key financial institutions
Enhancing the role of I-Score (the Egyptian Credit Bureau) in assessing creditworthiness
Expanding the function of the Credit Risk Guarantee Company to support financing for SMEs
a vital driver of Egypt’s economy
These measures reflect Egypt’s commitment to building a resilient financial system that
supports innovation, financial access, and economic growth
A Strategic Milestone: Remarks by CBE Governor Hassan Abdalla
Commenting on the FATF recognition, CBE Governor H.E. Mr. Hassan Abdalla stated
This global recognition reinforces our strategic commitment to building an inclusive financial
system that protects national financial stability while empowering citizens through access to
formal financial services He added that the recognition reflects the fruitful cooperation between
the CBE, the AML/CFT unit, and other national stakeholders, and serves as validation of Egypt’s
leadership in the financial regulatory landscape
Egypt’s Role in Shaping Global AML/CFT and Inclusion Standards
The updated FATF guidance was developed in collaboration with key international stakeholders
including the Central Bank of Egypt and the Egyptian AML/CFT Unit. This participation reflects
Egypt’s thought leadership and influence in shaping global financial inclusion and compliance strategies
The document encourages countries worldwide to adopt risk-based, proportionate approaches to AML/CFT
compliance that do not hinder financial inclusion goals — a balance Egypt has demonstrably achieved
Egypt’s inclusion in the FATF’s list of global best practices reaffirms its position as a regional and international
leader in financial inclusion, AML/CFT regulation, and digital transformation. With the continued efforts
of the Central Bank of Egypt, Egypt is well-positioned to remain a benchmark for how developing
economies can achieve inclusive, safe, and compliant financial systems
