Insurance industry regulators around the world are expanding their influence by educating their peers in emerging markets.

The International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS), which met last week in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, says a new education project to enhance supervisors' knowledge of insurance regulation and supervision will help develop critical skills.

"This project forms an important part of the IAIS standard implementation road map and work plans," Implementation Committee Chairman Manuel Aguilera said.

"The IAIS will reach out to emerging markets with the objective of harmonising insurance supervisory regimes and promoting financial stability."

Developed around a core curriculum devised by the IAIS and the World Bank, the program will involve interactive e-learning and practical training in the principal areas of insurance, with complementary workshops and distance learning events.

The IAIS represents insurance regulators and supervisors from 190 jurisdictions in nearly 140 countries. It also has more than 120 groups, including the Insurance Council of Australia and IAG, as observers.