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ARTICLE · 14 AUGUST 2026

New CIMA Rules On AML And Sanctions Compliance Programmes: What Funds And Fund Managers Need To Know

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The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority has issued two new binding rules that will fundamentally reshape compliance obligations for financial service providers, including mutual funds, private funds, and SIBA registrants. These rules convert previously non-binding guidance into enforceable requirements with significant penalties for non-compliance, mandating enhanced anti-money laundering programs, sanctions screening protocols, and independent audit obligations.

Hong KongGovernment, Public Sector
Alexander Doyle
Alexander Doyle
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On 18 September 2026, two new rules issued by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (“CIMA”) will take effect: the Rule on Effective Compliance Programme for the Prevention and Detection of Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Proliferation Financing (the “AML Compliance Rule”) and the Rule on Compliance with Financial Sanctions and Targeted Financial Sanctions (the “Sanctions Compliance Rule”).

Each Rule applies to financial service providers (“FSPs”) regulated by CIMA, meaning persons carrying on or conducting Relevant Financial Business, including mutual funds, private funds and persons registered under the Securities Investment Business Act (“SIBA”). The Rules have been established to convert specific sections of the non-binding Guidance Notes (the “Guidance Notes”) to the Anti-Money Laundering Regulations (the “AMLRs”) into binding Rules. Therefore, both Rules are enforceable and any breach may result in enforcement action. The AMLRs and the Guidance Notes remain in force

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