North Mariana Islands is a commonwealth in political union with the United States. Information for the United States may be included below:

FATF status

The U.S.A. 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 the USA was undertaken by in 2024. According to that Evaluation, the USA was deemed Compliant for 9 and Largely Compliant for 23 of the FATF 40 Recommendations. It remains Highly Effective for 4 and Substantially Effective for 4 with regard to the 11 areas of Effectiveness of its AML/CFT Regime.

The Northern Mariana Islands, as a commonwealth in political union with the United States, reflects the U.S. business environment where corruption is not seen as a significant risk for foreign investors. Although the U.S. market is competitive and offers numerous opportunities, businesses must navigate a complex regulatory landscape due to various levels of governance and extensive anti-corruption laws. Compliance with these laws, including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), is strictly enforced, and while facilitation payments and small gifts are permitted under certain conditions, they can still lead to violations of other anti-corruption regulations.

The economy of the Northern Mariana Islands is primarily driven by tourism, especially from Asian countries, alongside a historically significant garment manufacturing sector. However, since 2005, the economy has struggled with a decline in tourism and the closure of garment factories, resulting in decreased GDP and economic activity. Agriculture contributes minimally to the GDP but is vital for local food supply, particularly on Tinian, while the region benefits from federal support due to its political relationship with the U.S.

The investment climate in the Northern Mariana Islands is shaped by its status as a U.S. commonwealth, which allows for certain exemptions from federal laws, particularly in labor and immigration. Despite potential growth opportunities in tourism and agriculture, the local economy faces challenges such as the decline of the garment industry and the need for economic diversification, compounded by regulatory issues and infrastructure needs.