4类房地产洗钱方式将被严查

Core Viewpoint - The introduction of the "Anti-Money Laundering Work Management Measures for Real Estate Practitioners" aims to strengthen anti-money laundering efforts in the real estate sector, addressing the increasing complexity of money laundering methods and enhancing regulatory compliance [1][2][4]. Group 1: Regulatory Framework - The new measures prohibit real estate developers and intermediaries from selling properties or providing brokerage services to clients with unclear identities, allowing them to refuse service if clients do not provide identification [1]. - The retention period for customer identity information and transaction records has been extended from five years to ten years, reflecting a more stringent regulatory approach [2][6]. - The measures are part of a broader trend of expanding anti-money laundering regulations in China, which have been increasingly detailed and comprehensive over the years [4][7]. Group 2: Trends in Money Laundering - Money laundering through real estate is characterized by large transactions, making the sector a common avenue for illicit funds [9]. - Common methods of laundering money in real estate include splitting purchases into smaller transactions, selling properties at a loss to relatives, and using shell companies to disguise the source of funds [10]. - Recent trends indicate that money laundering methods have become more sophisticated and intertwined with financial instruments, necessitating updates to existing laws and regulations [10]. Group 3: Implementation and Future Directions - The new measures are expected to enhance the legal responsibilities of real estate practitioners, with a focus on detailed operational guidelines and the division of responsibilities among regulatory bodies and industry associations [11]. - Local adaptations of these anti-money laundering measures are anticipated, with cities like Beijing already having established preliminary frameworks for implementation [11].