Congo (Democratic Republic) vs Laos
Crypto regulation comparison
Congo (Democratic Republic)
Laos
Banned
Legal
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.
Laos authorized cryptocurrency mining and trading through a 2021 pilot program (PM Notification No. 1158). Six companies were initially licensed, growing to 15+ by 2023. Mining operations must be 100% Lao-owned and use at least 10MW from Électricité du Laos. Two crypto exchanges (LDX, Bitqik) registered with Bank of Lao PDR.
Tax Type
None
Tax Type
Unclear
Tax Rate
N/A
Tax Rate
15% on transaction fees
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
Banque Centrale du Congo
Regulator
Ministry of Technology and Communications, Bank of the Lao PDR
Stablecoin Rules
No stablecoin regulation
Stablecoin Rules
No specific stablecoin regulation; pilot covers BTC, ETH, LTC
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
Key Points
- PM Notification No. 1158 (2021) authorized pilot crypto mining and trading
- Two licensed exchanges: LDX and Bitqik, registered with Bank of Lao PDR
- Mining leverages surplus hydroelectric power from Électricité du Laos
- Mining must be 100% Lao-owned; trading platforms require 51% Lao ownership
- 15% tax on transaction fees; M security deposit required for exchanges