Anti-money laundering

Money laundering is the process of covering up the source of money generated through illegal activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud or tax evasion. Money laundering is intended to “clean” money so that it cannot be traced back to the illegal activity.

Money laundering fuels problems that hurt people and communities across B.C., like gang violence and the toxic drug crisis. The Province is working with the federal government, law enforcement, regulators and other organizations to detect, disrupt and deter money launderers and to make B.C. the toughest place in Canada to launder money.

Services and information topics

Reports

The B.C. government commissioned several independent reports and a public inquiry to understand the extent and ways that money is laundered in B.C.

Real estate

Real estate transactions can be used in several ways to aid in money laundering; these do not necessarily involve buying a property with cash. B.C. is taking the necessary steps to address these risks.

Gambling

Since 2017, both the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB) and British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) have strengthened policies and initiatives to prevent money laundering in gambling facilities.

Financial services

The B.C. government is working to stop money laundering by addressing vulnerabilities in the financial services industry.

Civil forfeiture

The B.C. government is targeting organized crime through a new tool to seize proceeds of crime, such as fast cars, glamourous homes and luxury goods.

Corporate ownership transparency

Money launderers use business organizations, such as corporations, to hide their illegal activities and their identities. Corporations can own property, have bank accounts, and make transactions, and so historically have been vulnerable to being used as a tool to hold or move money anonymously.

Information for professionals

Certain professions, such as lawyers, notaries, and accountants may be more likely to come into contact with money launderers due to the nature of their work.

For more information:

Contact information

General Inquires
AMLSecretariat@gov.bc.ca

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The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.