Vanuatu Strengthens Global Standing With Launch of METT: A Major Boost for Passport Value & Citizenship Confidence

Vanuatu has taken a decisive step toward strengthening its global financial reputation with the official launch of the Mutual Evaluation Technical Team (METT), a national taskforce dedicated to preparing the country for the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) Mutual Evaluation in November 2026. For investors and future applicants, this development points toward greater credibility, resilience and international recognition.

Prime Minister Jotham Napat described the launch as a "national moment", a turning point in Vanuatu's ongoing effort to reinforce financial integrity, transparency and global cooperation. The message is clear: this is more than a bureaucratic exercise; it is a national commitment to meet the world's highest AML/CTF standards.

Why this matters for Vanuatu's passport & citizenship programme

International assessments like the upcoming APG Mutual Evaluation directly influence how the world views a country's financial stability and risk profile. These evaluations affect access to banking, investment flows and overall global trust, factors that directly impact the strength and market positioning of citizenship-by-investment programmes.

By committing to stronger AML, CTF and CPF standards, Vanuatu is laying the groundwork for:

• Enhanced international credibility, supporting stronger global mobility for passport holders.
• Improved correspondent banking relationships, essential for international financial transactions.
• Greater confidence among foreign investors, strengthening the long-term value of Vanuatu citizenship.
• A more resilient and transparent financial system underpinning the citizenship programme.

A high-level, national effort to strengthen integrity

The newly created METT consists of more than 20 senior officials from the nation's most critical institutions, including the Financial Intelligence Unit, Reserve Bank of Vanuatu, Vanuatu Financial Services Commission, Vanuatu Police Force, Office of the Attorney-General, Office of the Public Prosecutor, and the Department of Customs and Inland Revenue.

With private sector observers also participating, the METT is the technical engine room powering Vanuatu's national response to the APG evaluation. Under the guidance of the National Coordinating Committee, it ensures every institution, from regulators to law enforcement, is aligned, prepared and fully compliant.

A stronger future for investors and global citizens

Prime Minister Napat reaffirmed that Vanuatu's goal is not only compliance but effectiveness and resilience: strengthening laws, improving supervision and building a financial system capable of withstanding future challenges. Director General George Maniuri reinforced that transparency, accurate institutional reporting and accountability are key to rebuilding and expanding trust with international partners.