The latest ranking continues Labuan IBFC’s upward trajectory, rising from 60th to 55th and now 44th globally across three consecutive GFCI editions. The cumulative 16-place improvement reflects the Centre’s growing international recognition and stronger position in the global financial landscape. The improvement has also strengthened Labuan IBFC’s comparative standing, placing it ahead of established financial centres in the European and Caribbean regions.

Labuan IBFC’s profile has also been elevated from “International Contender” to “Specialised Centre”. This classification reflects the Centre’s increasingly distinct positioning and depth in areas such as captive insurance, Islamic finance, digital financial services and wealth management.

Affendi Rashdi, Director General of Labuan FSA, said, “This advancement signals Labuan IBFC’s growing stature as a distinctive and internationally relevant financial centre, one that is building on its specialised strengths to serve the evolving needs of global business.”

More importantly, Labuan IBFC’s niche capabilities complement Malaysia’s broader financial ecosystem and strengthen the country’s international financial connectivity.

Affendi added, “We will continue to build bridges across financial centres and jurisdictions - deepening international linkages, unlocking new opportunities and positioning Labuan IBFC as a trusted gateway connecting Asia with global business and investment.”

Building on this momentum, the upcoming Labuan IBFC Strategic Roadmap 2027–2031 will chart the Centre’s next chapter of development, with greater emphasis on international and regional connectivity, competitiveness, responsible innovation and regulatory maturity. These priorities will advance Labuan IBFC’s development as a future-ready, competitive and well-connected financial centre.

Labuan Financial Services Authority
22 September 2026