New Measures for the Exchange Office Sector in Tunisia
As of January 23, 2026, the Central Bank of Tunisia (BCT) has introduced new rules for exchange offices through Circular No. 2026-02. The objective is clear: to transform each exchange office into a strong link in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing.
Daily Surveillance
Exchange offices are no longer just about exchanging bills; each agent has become a true guardian of financial security. In practice, this means that even for small amounts or if you are a regular customer, you will be systematically asked for your identification papers.
The major innovation is the "security check": your name is scrutinized against national and international sanctions lists. This is an automatic but mandatory procedure. If there is any doubt about an identity or if a profile seems suspicious, the agent is strictly instructed to stop the transaction immediately. This may involve a few more formalities, but it is the price to pay for ensuring that the money circulating in Tunisia is completely clean and transparent.
Better Knowledge of the Client and Their Profile
The new regulation requires exchange offices to collect very precise information:
- For individuals: details about their profession and income will be requested to estimate their financial resources.
- For structures (companies, associations, political parties): the requirements are strengthened, with possible requests for financial statements or the identifier in the National Register of Enterprises.
- Particular attention is paid to "Politically Exposed Persons" (PEPs). Whether Tunisian or foreign, heads of state, government members, or high-ranking political officials (and their relatives) are monitored more closely. The same applies to clients residing in countries considered high-risk by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Digitalization and Alerts
The procedure is becoming digital: exchange offices must register on the goAML platform of the Tunisian Financial Analysis Commission (CTAF). This is where they must immediately report any operation that seems suspicious to them.
A golden rule applies: secrecy. It is forbidden to tell a client that they have been reported. Furthermore, all documents concerning clients and their transactions must be kept for ten years.
Sanctions to Protect the System
The Central Bank of Tunisia is watching closely and will control the effectiveness of these measures. In case of non-compliance with these new rules, sanctions can be imposed: this can range from a simple warning to the definitive closure of the exchange office.
