Andorra Approves Bills to Update Anti-Money Laundering and Market Abuse Laws

The Andorran government has approved two bills to update its financial regulations, incorporating recent European Union provisions on anti-money laundering, terrorism financing, and market abuse prevention.

The executive approved the legislative proposals on Wednesday, led by Finance Minister Ramon Lladós. The measures are set for submission to the Consell General shortly, as part of efforts to align with international standards and obligations under agreements like the monetary accord.

The first bill modifies the Law on the Prevention and Fight against Money Laundering or Securities and the Financing of Terrorism. It integrates rules from EU Regulation 2023/1113, extending current obligations for fund transfers to include virtual asset transfers. This strengthens traceability for such operations and adds requirements for virtual asset service providers, helping detect and probe potential illicit activities amid rising economic digitalisation.

The second bill updates the Law on the Organisation and Operation of Financial System Entities and Market Abuse. It adopts EU changes to combat market abuse, including refined prevention rules, adjustments to inside information management, and simplified administrative duties for financial entities. These steps maintain transparency and investor protections.

Officials said the reforms will enhance the robustness and competitiveness of Andorra's financial system while progressing toward regulatory alignment with the EU.