Cape Town – The African National Congress (ANC) has welcomed the European Union’s decision to remove South Africa from its high-risk list of third-country jurisdictions, describing it as both a technical victory and a political triumph for the nation.
The move follows South Africa’s delisting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in October 2025, after the country implemented comprehensive reforms to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
“These reforms are not merely technical adjustments; they represent the practical application of the ANC’s vision of building an ethical, developmental state,” said ANC National Spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu.
Bhengu highlighted the broader significance of the achievement, saying, “A country that protects its financial institutions from abuse strengthens its capacity to deliver services, build trust with international partners, and ensure that the wealth of the nation serves the people.”
The ANC welcomes the removal of South Africa from the European Union ( EU) list of high-risk third country jurisdictions. As a global role player, South Africa contributes to combating illicit trade and cash flows, terrorism financing and money laundering. This is a proud moment… pic.twitter.com/c5QuMKsM3m
— ANC – African National Congress (@MYANC) January 14, 2026
The ANC added that the milestone demonstrates that sovereignty in the modern era extends beyond political independence to responsibly managing financial systems. The party explained that the removal from the EU list underscores the link between sound governance and national dignity, reaffirming the importance of state capacity, professionalism, and ethical governance.
In its statement, the ANC outlined plans to consolidate these gains by strengthening financial management and service delivery, building accountable and transparent institutions, and ensuring South Africa remains a respected global partner.
Bhengu concluded, “This moment inspires confidence in the nation’s future and demonstrates that collective effort, guided by principled leadership, can overcome obstacles that stifle growth and progress.”
The EU’s decision will take effect on 29 January 2026, reflecting South Africa’s progress in addressing strategic deficiencies in anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism financing measures.
Minister of Transport and senior ANC member Fikile Mbalula also commented on related positive developments, saying, “We welcome the news from the US House of Representatives that it has voted in favour of extending South Africa’s participation in AGOA. This is a step in the right direction and protects our agricultural sector but also benefits the US.”
We welcome the news from the US House of Representatives that it has voted in favour of extending South Africa’s participation in the African Growth and Opportunity Act(AGOA). This is a step in the right direction and protects our agricultural sector but also benefits the US.…
— ANC SECRETARY GENERAL | Fikile Mbalula (@MbalulaFikile) January 14, 2026
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
