Tunisia’s Ministry of Trade and Export Development has introduced a new set of obligations for real estate agents as part of broader efforts to strengthen the fight against money laundering, terrorism financing, and financial crimes.
Published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Tunisia on January 26, 2026, the ministerial decree—comprising 36 articles—establishes updated rules and compliance standards for real estate professionals. The measure aims to tighten oversight of property transactions and enhance the transparency of financial flows within this strategic sector.
Under the new regulation, real estate agents are required to implement an internal risk assessment system based on criteria such as client profiles, geographic areas, and the nature of services provided. Professionals must also verify the full identity of clients and beneficial owners before concluding any contract or business relationship, while ensuring that this information is regularly updated.
The decree further mandates enhanced due diligence for high-risk situations, particularly when dealing with politically exposed persons (PEPs) or their close associates. In such cases, agents must obtain prior managerial approval and take reasonable steps to determine the origin of wealth and sources of funds.
As part of efforts to curb financial crime, real estate agents are now obligated to immediately and confidentially report any suspicious transaction to the Tunisian Financial Analysis Committee, while strictly prohibiting disclosure to the clients involved.
Agencies must retain all documents and records related to clients and transactions for at least ten years after the completion of the operation. The Ministry of Trade will oversee compliance through administrative reviews and on-site inspections.
This decree repeals and replaces the previous decision dated April 19, 2018, aligning Tunisian legislation with updated national and international standards on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing.
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