The Åland Islands is an autonomous region of Finland. Information for Finland may be included below:

FATF Status

Finland is not on the FATF List of Countries that have been identified as having strategic AML deficiencies

Compliance with FATF Recommendations

The last Follow-up Mutual Evaluation Report relating to the implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards in Finland was undertaken in 2023. According to that Evaluation, Finland was deemed Compliant for 9 and Largely Compliant for 28 of the FATF 40 Recommendations. It remains Highly Effective for 1 and Substantially Effective for 3 of the Effectiveness & Technical Compliance ratings.

The Åland Islands, as an autonomous region of Finland, operates under Finland's legal framework regarding corruption, which includes various criminal offenses and penalties outlined in the criminal code. Finland employs multiple agencies to combat corruption, with the Ministry of Justice coordinating efforts, while large companies are mandated to report on their anti-corruption policies. Despite a generally transparent regulatory environment, isolated incidents of corruption can occur, particularly at the local level, often linked to informal networks between businesses and politicians.

Åland's economy is primarily driven by shipping, trade, and tourism, with shipping accounting for approximately 40% of its economic activities. The region has shown resilience in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining a low unemployment rate of 3.9% as of January 2014, and benefits from unique tax exemptions that favor local businesses.

The investment climate in Åland is favorable due to its unique tax exemptions and regulations that support local businesses, especially in shipping and tourism. Its strategic location, autonomous status, and commitment to a stable economic environment make it an appealing destination for foreign investments, despite some restrictions on property ownership.