Trade Based Money Laundering in Select Asian Economies: A Comparative Approach Using the Gravity Model

Trade based money laundering (TBML) is a major issue for emerging Asian economies reliant on trade for economic expansion. In this paper, the gravity model is applied to examine how government attitude toward traditional money laundering practices affect the amount of TBML between Thailand, Singapore and Japan for the years 2001-2015. Results reveal that the amount of TBML between Japan, Thailand and Singapore is greater with higher levels of government attitude toward traditional money laundering. Findings can be used to review current anti-money laundering regulations to ensure appropriate enforcement activity to reduce criminal activity and encourage economic growth.