Belgium vs Syria
Crypto regulation comparison
Belgium
Syria
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.
Syria has a restrictive stance on cryptocurrency compounded by international sanctions. The Central Bank has not authorized crypto activities. International sanctions make access to crypto platforms extremely difficult.
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
- Central Bank has not authorized cryptocurrency activities
- International sanctions severely restrict crypto access
- No specific cryptocurrency legislation
- Limited internet infrastructure hampers crypto use
- Informal crypto usage exists despite restrictions