Turkmenistan Enacts Crypto Mining Law With Strict State Oversight
Turkmenistan has taken a decisive step into the digital asset era with its new Law on Virtual Assets, effective January 1, 2026. The legislation, signed by President Serdar Berdimuhamedow in late 2025, establishes a framework for cryptocurrency mining and trading under the watchful eye of the central bank.
The law introduces a licensing system for all crypto-related operations, bringing much-needed clarity to the sector. While VIRTUAL assets now enjoy recognition under civil law, the government maintains its prohibition on using cryptocurrencies for payments—a cautious approach characteristic of centralized economies.
This regulatory move positions Turkmenistan alongside other nations grappling with how to harness blockchain technology while maintaining financial control. The central bank's oversight role suggests a preference for institutional rather than retail participation in the crypto market.
