Kazakhstan vs Mongolia
Crypto regulation comparison
Kazakhstan
Mongolia
Kazakhstan has a dual approach to crypto regulation. The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) operates as a regulated sandbox where licensed crypto exchanges can operate under AFSA supervision. Outside the AIFC, crypto regulation is more restrictive. Kazakhstan became a major mining hub after China's ban but has since tightened mining regulations.
Mongolia adopted the Law on Virtual Asset Service Providers (VPSP) in December 2021, establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework. The Financial Regulatory Commission (FRC) registers and supervises crypto exchanges. Over 12 licensed exchanges serve 850,000+ customers. Crypto mining is legal and growing, with tax incentives for renewable energy use.
Key Points
- AIFC provides a regulatory sandbox for licensed crypto exchanges and businesses
- Mining is legal and licensed, with a specific tax on electricity consumption for miners
- Kazakhstan became the world's second-largest Bitcoin mining country after China's 2021 ban
- 2022 mining crackdown introduced stricter licensing and energy consumption taxes
- Outside AIFC, domestic crypto payments and exchanges face greater restrictions
Key Points
- Law on Virtual Asset Service Providers (VPSP) adopted December 2021
- FRC registers and supervises crypto exchanges under VPSP law
- Over 12 licensed exchanges serving 850,000+ customers
- Crypto exchange income is taxable and exempt from VAT
- Mongolia launched blockchain-based OTC securities trading in 2025