- Algeria criminalizes all crypto activities under Law No. 25-10 enacted on July 24
- Offenders face up to one year in prison and fines of up to 1 million Algerian dinars
- Law aligns with FATF standards to fight tax evasion, fraud, and terrorism financing
Algeria has passed a nationwide ban on all cryptocurrency-related activities, including ownership, trading, mining, and promotion. The new policy, formalized through Law No. 25-10 and passed on July 24, marks a major and severe shift in the country’s approach to digital assets.
The new law imposes criminal penalties on any individuals or entities involved in issuing, using, or promoting crypto assets such as Bitcoin and Tether.
What the new Algerian crypto law prohibits
Under the updated legislation, any form of cryptocurrency activity is now classified as a punishable offense. This includes the buying, selling, and owning of crypto assets, as well as the operation of crypto exchanges, mining farms, and digital wallet services. Promoting or advertising any crypto-related product is also now illegal.
Related: Nigeria Freezes $716K in Crypto, Blames Platforms for Naira Devaluation
The law broadly defines crypto assets as “property, income, funds, or financial assets,” placing them firmly under the authority of Algeria’s strict financial laws, particularly those targeting money laundering and terrorism financing.
Violators face prison time and heavy fines
Violators of the new law could face prison terms ranging from two months to one year.
Additionally, monetary penalties range between 200,000 and 1 million Algerian dinars (approximately $1,540 to $7,700). In more serious cases, both imprisonment and fines may be applied.
Government Cites Financial Security and Compliance as Key Factors
According to official reports, the Algerian government views the crypto ban as a necessary step to enhance its anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) frameworks. The law aims to address alleged threats related to financial crimes such as tax evasion and fraud.
Related: Ethiopia Prepares to Regulate Crypto, Even as Official Ban Stays Put
The legislation brings Algeria closer to global regulatory norms, particularly those set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). Enforcement of the law will involve multiple state agencies, including the Bank of Algeria, financial market regulators, and internal security forces.
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