French Guiana is an overseas department and region of France. Information for France may be included below:

FATF Status

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

Compliance with FATF Recommendations

The latest follow-up Mutual Evaluation Report relating to the implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards in France was undertaken in 2022. According to that Evaluation, France was deemed Compliant for 19 and Largely Compliant for 18 of the FATF 40 Recommendations. It was rated Highly Effective for 3 and Substantially Effective for 6 of the Effectiveness & Technical Compliance ratings.

French Guiana, as an overseas department of France, is subject to French laws aimed at combating corruption, such as the "Loi Sapin II," which established an anti-corruption agency and mandated lobbyist registration. Despite these efforts, concerns remain regarding the effectiveness of enforcement, particularly in cases involving foreign bribery, as highlighted by the OECD's findings that many recommendations for improvement have not been fully implemented. Overall, while the legal framework for addressing corruption in France is strong, challenges persist in ensuring accountability and transparency among public officials.

French Guiana's economy is primarily driven by the Guiana Space Centre, which plays a crucial role in local employment and economic activity. While traditional industries such as gold mining, fishing, and timber contribute to the economy, agriculture remains underdeveloped, and economic growth has been uneven since 2013, with GDP per capita stagnating significantly below that of metropolitan France.

The investment climate in French Guiana benefits from its status as an overseas department of France, providing stability and access to European markets. However, high unemployment rates, social unrest, and a reliance on subsidies from mainland France present significant challenges for potential investors. Additionally, inadequate infrastructure in many areas further complicates investment opportunities, although emerging sectors like eco-tourism may offer future growth prospects.