AML Prevention and Combating of Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing in the Republic of Moldova

In the Republic of Moldova, the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing is regulated through a modern legal framework aligned with European and international standards. Financial institutions, companies, and certain liberal professions must comply with strict transparency, control, and reporting requirements designed to protect the integrity of the financial system.

AML refers to the rules and measures that prevent the use of financial systems for hiding the origin of illicit funds.
This is important for clients because it:

  • protects the safety and integrity of financial transactions;
  • prevents fraud, abuse, and reputational risks;
  • ensures a secure environment for business and investments;
  • is mandatory for all regulated entities and professionals.

Legal framework at a glance

The key AML regulations in Moldova include:

  • Law No. 308/2017, as amended (including by Law No. 66/2023), establishing the core AML/CFT requirements;
  • Law No. 75/2020, currently in force with several amendments, including the repeal of Article 24;
  • current SPCSB, National Bank of Moldova (NBM), and National Financial Market Commission (CNPF) regulations and guidelines.

These instruments incorporate EU standards and FATF recommendations.

SPCSB – The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)

The SPCSB collects, analyzes, and disseminates information on suspicious activities and coordinates national AML/CFT policies.

NBM and CNPF

These authorities supervise AML/CFT compliance in the banking and non-banking financial sectors.

Reporting entities include, among others:

  • banks and non-bank credit organizations;
  • currency exchange units;
  • real estate agents;
  • insurance and investment companies;
  • auditors and accountants;
  • lawyers and notaries in specific types of transactions;
  • leasing companies;
  • high-value goods traders (for cash transactions exceeding legal thresholds).

How client identification works (KYC)

To prevent illicit activities, reporting entities must verify their clients and understand:

  • who the beneficial owner (UBO) is;
  • whether the client is a politically exposed person (PEP);
  • the purpose of the business relationship and source of funds;
  • whether transactions align with the client’s risk profile.

These are standard international practices and do not limit the rights of legitimate clients.

Reporting entities must notify SPCSB of:

  • suspicious transactions — regardless of the amount;
  • cash transactions exceeding 200,000 MDL;
  • transfers above specific thresholds defined in SPCSB methodology.

All reporting is confidential, and entities are prohibited from informing clients (“tipping-off”).

Sanctions may include:

  • significant fines;
  • suspension or withdrawal of licenses;
  • temporary bans on holding managerial positions.

These measures aim to protect clients, institutions, and the financial system as a whole.

AML rules are not a formality—they ensure:

  • safe financial operations,
  • transparency and integrity,
  • a trustworthy environment for individuals and businesses.

Balaban & Partners supports clients in understanding and meeting AML obligations, offering complete advisory services in line with current legislation.