It concerns the Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA), an institution that has yet to be established. Almost more important than the institution itself is the question of where this institution will subsequently be housed.
Out of the race early
Hosting such an institution is good for employment, was the argument used by the battle won by the Netherlands at the headquarters of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). And the latter will undoubtedly have played a role in the government’s decision to withdraw early from the race for the Amla seat.
It is true that the Netherlands would have a good chance, but the favor factor with the other member states is “low now”, reports Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag. in the House of Representatives. To stand any chance, an intensive lobbying campaign would therefore have to be launched. The cabinet expects “fierce competition”.
Not enough priority
And bringing the headquarters of the anti-money laundering supervisory body is not that important, compared to other international files that the Netherlands is lobbying for. According to Kaag, “the acquisition of AMLA” is not “priority sufficient to fulfill that commitment.”
