The Financial Intelligence Office (GIF) will be overseen by the government’s public security portfolio from today, according to an executive order signed by Chief Executive Chui Sai On that was published in the Official Gazette (BO).
According to the order, the office’s anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism financing tasks will remain unchanged.
The office had been part of the government’s economy and finance portfolio since its setting-up in July 2006.
From today, the office is overseen by Secretary for Security Wong Sio Chak.
Wong told reporters last week the aim of the portfolio change was to ensure that the prevention of, and fight against, financial crimes would become even more efficient. He also said the change was also due to suggestions by international organisations and the experience accumulated by the office over the past decade.
Until Monday, the office was overseen by Secretary for Economy and Finance Lionel Leong Vai Tac.
