Belgium vs Congo (Democratic Republic)
Crypto regulation comparison
Belgium
Congo (Democratic Republic)
Cryptocurrency is legal in Belgium and regulated under the EU's MiCA framework. Tax treatment depends on whether gains are considered normal management of private assets (tax-free), speculative (33% misc income), or professional income (progressive rates). The FSMA has banned distribution of crypto derivatives to consumers.
The BCC has explicitly banned cryptocurrencies in the DRC. Bitcoin and all virtual currencies are neither regulated nor authorized. The BCC has warned against pyramid schemes using crypto.
Key Points
- Tax treatment depends on classification: normal portfolio management (0%), speculation (33%), or professional (up to 50%)
- FSMA banned advertising of crypto derivatives and certain crypto products to consumers in 2022
- VASPs must register with FSMA and comply with AML/KYC requirements
- MiCA regulation fully applicable from December 2024
- Belgium has a relatively active crypto community and blockchain ecosystem
Key Points
- BCC explicitly prohibits all cryptocurrency activity
- Virtual currencies are neither regulated nor authorized to operate
- BCC warns of high risks of cybercrime and money laundering
- Unauthorized crypto investment schemes have been shut down
- No licensing framework exists for crypto service providers