Macao SAR Government expresses regrets to US Treasury Department’s decision on Banco Delta Asia

Lately, the Treasury Department of the United States of America has designated Banco Delta Asia (“BDA”) as a financial institution that has laundered money, to which MSAR Government (the “Government”) expresses its deep regret. In view of the designation of BDA as a financial institution of primary money laundering concern by the U.S. Government on 15 September 2005, the Government, in accordance with provisions of relevant legislation, swiftly adopted a series of measures, and closely mooted on the matter with relevant parties with a view to resolving the incident satisfactorily. As a consequence of recent development, the Government has decided to extend its intervention regime applicable to BDA with a view to safeguarding the benefit of depositors and maintaining market stability. Simultaneously, the Government will continue to closely moot on the matter with relevant parties so that the incident can be resolved at an earlier date. On the other hand, the Government will persistently strengthen the enforcement and supervision of measures to combat money laundering and ensure the continued proper functioning and effective risk management of financial institutions. The Government believes that the relevant policy and measures will be supported by all sectors and citizens of our community which will no doubt promote the stability and healthy development of our financial system.