We are pleased to acknowledge the European Commission’s recent decision to remove Gibraltar from its list of high-risk third countries. This marks a significant milestone for Gibraltar’s financial services industry and is a powerful endorsement of the jurisdiction’s long-standing commitment to upholding the highest international standards in financial regulation and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance.

The decision follows a comprehensive evaluation of Gibraltar’s legal and regulatory framework and its effective implementation of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations. It confirms what many industry participants have known for some time: Gibraltar has built a mature, responsive, and globally respected financial services sector that stands shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world.

This development sends a strong message of confidence to the international community. Clients, partners, and institutions across Europe and beyond can now engage with Gibraltar-based firms without the additional due diligence requirements that previously applied. The practical impact will be felt most acutely in areas such as cross-border banking, insurance, investment management, and corporate services, where the removal of friction points will make doing business faster, simpler, and more attractive.

More than a symbolic gesture, this move has real-world implications. It removes unnecessary regulatory barriers, unlocks new opportunities for firms operating within or through Gibraltar, and strengthens the jurisdiction’s competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected financial landscape. It also underlines Gibraltar’s status as a serious, well-regulated financial centre – one that is not only open for business but open for high-quality, trusted business.

Achieving this result has required sustained effort and close coordination between the Gibraltar Government, the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission, and industry bodies. Their collective work, dedication, and strategic focus have been instrumental in bringing Gibraltar’s AML and counter-terrorist financing systems to a standard that meets – and in some areas exceeds – international expectations.

It is a true team success story that showcases the strength of Gibraltar’s public-private collaboration model. It highlights what can be achieved when policymakers, regulators, and the business community work in alignment towards a common goal.

Looking ahead, Gibraltar’s removal from the high-risk list further enhances its international reputation and visibility. It sends a clear message that Gibraltar is a jurisdiction of substance, resilience, and regulatory excellence. For existing and prospective investors, financial institutions, and professional service providers, it reaffirms that Gibraltar is not just a safe place to do business – it is a strategic partner for sustainable, compliant growth.

As we continue to build on this progress, we remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity and regulatory oversight, and to reinforcing Gibraltar’s position as a globally connected, innovative, and future-facing financial centre.