EU adopts measures on criminal sanctions for money laundering

The EU has adopted a Directive on criminal sanctions for money laundering. The Directive:

• sets minimum requirements for Member States’ laws on defining criminal offences and sanctions in relation to money laundering;
• imposes a maximum 4 years’ imprisonment with the possibility for additional civil and administrative sanctions;
• introduces the possibility of holding legal entities liable for certain money laundering activities; and
• aims to improve cross-border co-operation on enforcement.

Member States will have 24 months to implement the Directive once it has appeared in the OJEU.