Suva Fiji: A high-level regional conference on beneficial ownership transparency has commenced in Fiji, bringing together policymakers, regulators, and anti-corruption experts from across the Pacific.  

Hosted by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office in Fiji’s Anti-Corruption Project – funded by the Government of the United Kingdom – the conference aims to address the urgent need for greater transparency in corporate ownership structures to combat financial crimes, including money laundering and tax evasion. 

The two-day event from 5-6 February brings together 10 Pacific Island Countries to explore how beneficial ownership transparency measures can be tailored to address the unique challenges faced by the region. By working together, Pacific Island Countries are crafting solutions that align with their diverse legal and financial landscapes, demonstrating regional leadership in tackling corruption through homegrown innovations. 

While the Pacific faces complex challenges in implementing beneficial ownership frameworks, this conference is transforming those obstacles into opportunities – fostering innovation, collaboration, and leadership in anti-corruption efforts. Through this conference, Pacific Island Countries are not just responding to global standards but shaping solutions tailored to their contexts – ensuring transparency measures work effectively in the region and can serve as a model for other small island states facing similar governance challenges. 

HE Dr. Brian Jones, British High Commissioner to Fiji, opened the event and said: 

“Beneficial ownership registers are the foundation of financial transparency. Where the true owners and controllers of companies, assets and other legal entities are known, dirty money cannot hide. The British Foreign Secretary has been clear that he is taking up the issue of public registers of beneficial ownership with full vigour. Transnational economic crime requires a global response. The UK is committed to working with our partners and international financial centres to implement beneficial ownership registers around the world. As we see here today from the range of stakeholders gathered together, we will prioritise continuing to work with international partners, civil society, and multilateral bodies to promote beneficial ownership transparency and make it a global norm.” 

Munkhtuya Altangerel, Resident Representative with UNDP’s Pacific Office, added:   

“The focus of this conference – beneficial ownership transparency – may sound like a technical topic, but its impact is anything but abstract. It is about ensuring the people in our communities benefit from their resources, not those who exploit legal loopholes for personal gain. It is about strengthening our ability to tackle corruption and crime while fostering trust in our institutions.” 

The conference concludes on 6 February, with the discussions and commitments made to lay the groundwork for a stronger, more transparent financial system across the Pacific.  

For more information contact: 

Nick Turner | Strategic Communications and Advocacy Specialist, UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | nicholas.turner@undp.org