China vs Luxembourg
Crypto regulation comparison
China
Luxembourg
Banned
Legal
China has imposed a comprehensive ban on cryptocurrency activities. In September 2021, the PBOC and ten other agencies jointly declared all cryptocurrency transactions illegal, and the State Council banned crypto mining. China is instead promoting the digital yuan (e-CNY) CBDC.
Luxembourg is a major European hub for crypto and blockchain financial services. The CSSF regulates VASPs and crypto-related investment funds. Crypto held for more than 6 months is generally exempt from capital gains tax for individuals, making it attractive for long-term holders. Luxembourg hosts several prominent crypto exchanges and fund administrators.
Tax Type
Unclear
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Rate
N/A
Tax Rate
0-42%
Exchanges
No
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
No
Mining
Yes
Regulator
PBOC (People's Bank of China), CBIRC, CSRC
Regulator
CSSF (Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier)
Stablecoin Rules
Not applicable; all crypto activities are banned
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework; Luxembourg hosts major stablecoin issuers
Key Points
- All crypto transactions declared illegal by PBOC and 10 agencies in September 2021
- Crypto mining banned by the State Council in 2021 after a series of provincial crackdowns
- Financial institutions and payment companies prohibited from facilitating crypto services
- China actively developing and piloting the digital yuan (e-CNY) CBDC
- Despite the ban, some Chinese citizens reportedly access crypto via VPNs and OTC desks
Key Points
- CSSF oversees VASPs under the Luxembourg AML/CFT framework
- Individuals holding crypto for 6+ months are generally exempt from capital gains tax
- Short-term gains taxed at progressive income tax rates up to 42%
- Major hub for crypto investment funds and blockchain companies
- MiCA framework fully applicable from December 2024