India to Assume Presidency of Asset Recovery Interagency Network-Asia Pacific in 2026

India to Assume Presidency of Asset Recovery Interagency Network-Asia Pacific in 2026

In a significant development, India is set to assume the presidency of the Asset Recovery Interagency Network-Asia Pacific (ARIN-AP) in 2026. This announcement comes after India’s inclusion in the network’s steering committee, as confirmed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a statement released on Wednesday.

The ED stated, “India, represented by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), has been included in the Steering Committee of the Asset Recovery Interagency Network – Asia Pacific (ARIN-AP), a prominent multi-agency network dedicated to tackling crime proceeds across the Asia-Pacific region and a member of the Global CARIN Network. This new role allows India to participate in ARIN-AP’s decision-making and administrative responsibilities, advancing efforts to combat economic crimes and support global asset recovery.”

Furthermore, in recognition of India’s contributions to ARIN-AP, the country will host the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in 2026, solidifying its leadership in asset recovery and strengthening cooperation with regional and international partners.

ARIN-AP, comprising 28 member jurisdictions and nine observers, was established to facilitate cross-border collaboration on asset tracing, freezing, and confiscation. The network operates through contact points, enabling effective communication and intelligence exchange among member agencies, with the ED representing India as the nodal agency.

The core objectives of ARIN-AP include prioritizing the recovery of assets derived from all types of crime, in alignment with international commitments. The network aims to establish itself as a center of expertise in asset recovery, promoting best practices and knowledge sharing.

Additionally, ARIN-AP facilitates training, research, and partnerships with organizations such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Camden Asset Recovery Interagency Network (CARIN), while also promoting collaboration with the private sector to achieve its objectives effectively.

The ED highlighted the benefits of India’s participation in ARIN-AP, particularly in addressing challenges related to asset tracing and recovery in cases with international links. The platform has enabled the ED to obtain and share intelligence informally, paving the way for formal action through bilateral or multilateral agreements.

These developments align with India’s priorities under the G20 framework, specifically the Nine-Point Agenda on tackling fugitive economic offenders and asset recovery, as proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Overall, India’s upcoming presidency of ARIN-AP signifies a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to combat economic crimes and enhance cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.