Estonia vs Zambia
Crypto regulation comparison
Estonia
Zambia
Legal
No Regulation
Estonia was an early mover in crypto regulation, offering licenses since 2017. However, a 2022 overhaul significantly tightened requirements, revoking hundreds of licenses and imposing stricter capital and compliance standards. Crypto gains are taxed at 20% (rising to 22% from 2025).
Zambia has no comprehensive cryptocurrency legislation. The SEC warns the public about unregulated crypto schemes and evaluates whether specific products qualify as securities. The Bank of Zambia's 2024-2027 Strategic Plan includes developing a crypto and stablecoin regulatory framework. Blockchain-based regulatory testing is underway with the SEC and BoZ.
Tax Type
Capital gains
Tax Type
None
Tax Rate
20-22%
Tax Rate
N/A
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
Yes
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
Finantsinspektsioon (EFSA), Rahapesu Andmebüroo (FIU)
Regulator
Bank of Zambia, Securities and Exchange Commission
Stablecoin Rules
Regulated under EU MiCA framework
Stablecoin Rules
No stablecoin regulation
Key Points
- Estonia issued crypto licenses since 2017 but drastically tightened rules in 2022
- Hundreds of crypto licenses were revoked in 2020-2022 due to AML concerns
- New requirements include higher share capital (€100,000-€250,000) and local management
- Crypto gains taxed at 20% personal income tax (22% from 2025)
- MiCA framework applicable from December 2024
Key Points
- SEC warns public against unregulated cryptocurrency schemes
- Crypto products regulated only if they meet the definition of a security
- BoZ 2024-2027 Strategic Plan includes crypto and stablecoin regulatory framework
- Blockchain-based regulatory testing underway with SEC and BoZ
- Kwacha is sole legal tender for domestic transactions per 2025 Currency Directives