Kazakhstan vs Russia
Crypto regulation comparison
Kazakhstan
Russia
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.
Russia's crypto regulation is complex and evolving. The 2021 'On Digital Financial Assets' law recognizes crypto as property but bans its use as a means of payment. Mining was legalized and regulated in 2024 under a new mining law. Crypto is taxed as income at 13-15%. The CBR pushed for a total ban on crypto trading but was overruled by the government, which favors regulation. International sanctions have complicated Russia's crypto landscape.
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
- Digital Financial Assets law (2021) recognizes crypto as property but bans use as payment
- Crypto mining officially legalized and regulated under 2024 mining legislation
- Crypto income taxed at 13% (up to RUB 5M) or 15% (above RUB 5M)
- Domestic crypto exchanges not legally operating; P2P trading widespread. CBR framework Dec 2025 targeting July 2026.
- International sanctions have increased interest in crypto for cross-border transfers