Belgium vs Timor-Leste
Crypto regulation comparison
Belgium
Timor-Leste
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.
Timor-Leste has no specific cryptocurrency regulation. Uses the US dollar as its official currency.
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
- No specific cryptocurrency legislation
- Uses the US dollar as official currency
- Central bank has not addressed crypto regulation
- Very limited financial infrastructure
- Minimal crypto adoption