Turkmenistan to legalize cryptocurrency mining and exchanges in 2026

Turkmenistan has adopted a law legalizing cryptocurrency mining and the operation of crypto exchanges and exchange services. The new regulations will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026, as reported by Rbc.ru, citing the newspaper «Neutral Turkmenistan.»

The law governs the creation, issuance, storage and circulation of virtual assets. Cryptocurrencies will be recognized as civil property but not as legal currency or securities. Both secured and unsecured digital assets are permitted.

Mining will be allowed for individual entrepreneurs and legal entities, all of whom must register with the country’s central bank. Unauthorized or hidden mining using someone else’s computing resources is prohibited.

Cryptocurrency exchanges and service providers will be licensed and required to comply with anti-money laundering rules, including user identification requirements. The state will not be responsible for the liabilities of crypto platforms.

Turkmenistan possesses vast natural gas reserves and could serve as a vital link between current global energy challenges and future sustainability goals if it embraces technological innovation and global collaboration to advance joint energy projects, according to international experts.

Meanwhile, the country is on a list of a dozen countries whose citizens are not allowed to travel to the U.S. The ban was signed earlier this year by President Donald Trump.