房地产反洗钱升级！这四类“漂白”方式将被严查

Core Viewpoint - The introduction of the "Management Measures for Anti-Money Laundering Work of Real Estate Practitioners" aims to strengthen anti-money laundering efforts in the real estate sector, addressing the increasing complexity of money laundering methods in recent years [1][2][3] Summary by Sections Regulatory Framework - The new measures require real estate developers and intermediaries to verify the identity of clients and refuse service to those who do not provide identification [1] - The retention period for client identity information has been extended from five years to ten years, reflecting a more stringent regulatory approach [2] Background and Context - The measures are part of a broader trend of expanding anti-money laundering regulations in China, with a significant increase in prosecutions for money laundering crimes, reaching 2,971 in 2023, nearly 20 times the number in 2019 [3][4] - The legal framework has evolved since the establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Law in 2006, which initially focused on financial institutions [4][5] Money Laundering Characteristics in Real Estate - Real estate is identified as a significant avenue for money laundering due to its capital-intensive nature and large transaction sizes [8] - Common methods of laundering money through real estate include using "straw buyers," manipulating property prices, and creating shell companies to disguise illicit funds [9] Implications for the Industry - The new measures may impact the relationship between developers, intermediaries, and clients, especially in a buyer's market where competition for clients is high [10] - The detailed provisions of the measures enhance the operational framework for real estate practitioners, clarifying responsibilities among regulatory bodies, industry associations, and market participants [11] Future Developments - Local adaptations of the anti-money laundering measures are expected to be implemented, following the example set by Beijing's earlier regulations [12][13]