Flying Money, Hidden Threat Understanding the growth of Chinese Money Laundering Organisations

The paper first examines the structure and operations of Chinese Money Laundering Organisations (CMLOs) before moving on to describe how they have developed in the West. It then discusses them through a ‘state threats’ lens to evaluate whether they fit within this framework. In doing so, it draws on Redhead’s 2025 studies to assess how Western nations should respond. While recognising the extent and scope of the threat of CMLOs, the research does not find any evidence in the public domain to suggest that the Chinese state has been directing the operations of CMLOs operating in North America and Europe; however, it appears that there is, at least, tacit acceptance of their activities.