Czech Republic vs Laos
Crypto regulation comparison
Czech Republic
Laos
Legal
Legal
Cryptocurrency is legal in the Czech Republic with a growing regulatory framework aligned with EU standards. Crypto gains are subject to personal income tax at 15% (or 23% for high earners). A 2024 amendment introduced a tax exemption for crypto held over 3 years, effective from 2025.
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
Capital gains
Tax Type
Unclear
Tax Rate
15-23%
Tax Rate
15% on transaction fees
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
CNB (Czech National Bank), FAU (Financial Analytical Office)
Regulator
Ministry of Technology and Communications, Bank of the Lao PDR
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework
Stablecoin Rules
No specific stablecoin regulation; pilot covers BTC, ETH, LTC
Key Points
- Crypto gains taxed at 15% income tax (23% for income above CZK 1,935,552)
- New exemption from 2025: crypto held over 3 years or gains under CZK 100,000 per year exempt
- VASPs must register with the FAU (trade licensing office) and comply with AML law
- MiCA framework applicable from December 2024
- Prague is a notable European hub for crypto businesses and blockchain development
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