Algeria vs Philippines
Crypto regulation comparison
Algeria
Philippines
Algeria maintains one of the world's strictest cryptocurrency bans. Article 117 of the 2018 Finance Law prohibits the purchase, sale, use, and possession of virtual currencies. Law No. 25-10 (2025) further codified criminal penalties including imprisonment and fines for crypto-related activities.
The Philippines is one of the largest crypto markets in Southeast Asia. The BSP licenses Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) under Circular 1108 (2021), and the SEC regulates crypto as securities where applicable. The Philippines saw massive adoption through play-to-earn games (Axie Infinity) and remittances. Crypto income is taxed at progressive income tax rates.
Key Points
- 2018 Finance Law (Article 117) prohibits purchase, sale, use, and holding of virtual currency
- No licensed crypto exchanges operate in Algeria
- Bank of Algeria has issued multiple warnings against cryptocurrency
- Law No. 25-10 (2025) codifies prison sentences and fines for crypto offenses
- Despite the ban, peer-to-peer crypto usage persists informally
Key Points
- BSP Circular 1108 (2021) provides comprehensive VASP licensing framework
- BSP has licensed major exchanges including Coins.ph and PDAX
- SEC Philippines regulates crypto securities and has issued warnings on unregistered offerings
- Crypto income taxed at progressive rates (0-35%); 12% VAT may apply to exchanges
- Play-to-earn gaming (Axie Infinity) drove massive adoption, especially in rural areas