Hong Kong vs Cambodia
Crypto regulation comparison
Hong Kong
Cambodia
Legal
Restricted
Hong Kong has positioned itself as a major crypto hub in Asia with a comprehensive licensing regime. The SFC implemented a mandatory licensing framework for virtual asset trading platforms (VATPs) effective June 2023. Hong Kong has no capital gains tax, making it attractive for crypto investors and businesses.
Cambodia has a restrictive stance on cryptocurrency. The National Bank of Cambodia prohibits banks and financial institutions from dealing in crypto, and unlicensed crypto businesses are illegal. However, the government has shown interest in blockchain technology and launched Bakong, a CBDC-like payment system.
Tax Type
No tax
Tax Type
Unclear
Tax Rate
0%
Tax Rate
N/A
Exchanges
Yes
Exchanges
No
Mining
Yes
Mining
Yes
Regulator
SFC (Securities and Futures Commission), HKMA
Regulator
National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), SERC
Stablecoin Rules
HKMA developing a licensing regime for stablecoin issuers under a 2024 bill
Stablecoin Rules
Bakong (CBDC) promoted as alternative; private stablecoins not specifically regulated
Key Points
- Mandatory VATP licensing regime under the AMLO effective June 1, 2023
- No capital gains tax in Hong Kong; profits tax applies only to business profits
- SFC approved spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs for retail investors in April 2024
- HKMA consulting on stablecoin issuer licensing under a dedicated bill
- Hong Kong actively competes with Singapore as Asia's leading crypto hub
Key Points
- NBC issued a 2018 directive prohibiting banks from dealing in cryptocurrency
- Unlicensed crypto exchanges and trading platforms are banned
- Bakong digital payment system launched in 2020 using blockchain technology
- SERC (Securities and Exchange Regulator) has discussed regulating crypto as digital assets
- Despite restrictions, peer-to-peer crypto usage remains significant