The Notary AML Forum 2026: Sanctions, New Rules, and Tax Perks in Focus

Malta’s Grandmaster’s Palace, a stone’s throw from the bustling Republic Street, was abuzz with a different kind of energy this week. Instead of the usual political chatter, the air was filled with discussions on sanctions, new regulatory updates, and tax benefits. The Notary AML Forum 2026 had descended upon the historic venue, drawing local and international professionals eager to navigate the evolving scene of anti-money laundering (AML) and tax compliance.

Sanctions: A Global Perspective

The forum kicked off with a global perspective on sanctions, led by Dr. Alexandra Revesz, a renowned expert in international law. She painted a vivid picture of the complex web of sanctions regimes, from the EU’s restrictive measures to the U.S.’s strong sanctions against countries like Iran and North Korea. “Sanctions are no longer a tool used sparingly,” she noted, “They’ve become a central part of foreign policy.”

Local implications were not lost on the audience. Malta’s strategic location and strong financial sector make it a key player in international finance. Understanding the intricacies of sanctions, Dr. Revesz emphasized, is crucial for Maltese professionals to avoid inadvertently facilitating illicit activities.

New Regulatory Updates: Malta’s AML Journey

Malta’s Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU) took center stage next, outlining the island’s AML journey and the upcoming regulatory updates. The FIAU’s CEO, Kenneth Farrugia, highlighted Malta’s progress since the 2018 Moneyval evaluation, which had identified several areas for improvement.

“We’ve come a long way,” Farrugia acknowledged, “But there’s still much to do.” He teased upcoming changes to Malta’s AML/CFT framework, including enhanced customer due diligence (CDD) measures and stricter supervision of financial institutions.

Farrugia also touched on the upcoming Virtual Assets Act, which promises to provide a clear regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and other virtual assets. This, he believes, will not only enhance Malta’s AML efforts but also cement its position as a blockchain hub in the Mediterranean.

Tax Benefits: Opportunities and Challenges

The final session of the day delved into the thorny issue of tax benefits, with a panel comprising local and international tax experts. They explored the delicate balance between attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Malta’s full imputation tax system, refundable tax credits, and extensive double taxation treaty network were hailed as key attractions for foreign investors. However, the panel also acknowledged the challenges posed by an increasingly interconnected global tax scene, with initiatives like the OECD’s BEPS project and the EU’s anti-tax avoidance directives putting pressure on low-tax jurisdictions.

Dr. Maria Mifsud, a local tax lawyer, warned, “We must be proactive in adapting to these changes. Our tax regime should be competitive, but also sustainable and compliant with international standards.”

As the forum drew to a close, one thing was clear: Malta’s AML and tax scene is evolving rapidly. Professionals must stay informed and adaptable to navigate these changes effectively. As one participant put it, “We’re not just watching the game, we’re playing it. And the rules keep changing.”