Algeria officially criminalizes the use, trading, and mining of cryptocurrencies through Law No. 25-10, with a maximum prison sentence of one year.
Algeria has just enacted one of the strictest anti-cryptocurrency laws in the world, criminalizing all forms of use, exchange, or mining of cryptocurrencies. Law No. 25-10 was enacted on July 24, 2025, and published in Official Gazette No. 48, marking a clear shift from previous cautious warnings to an official and comprehensive ban.
The new law significantly amends and supplements Law No. 05-01 – the legal foundation for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing in Algeria. According to Article 6a, acts of issuing, buying, selling, owning, and promoting digital currencies are completely prohibited. The law also criminalizes the establishment or operation of cryptocurrency trading platforms, as well as the use of e-wallets regardless of whether through third parties or online services.
The law defines cryptocurrencies very broadly, considering them as 'assets, income, funds, or financial assets' regardless of whether the purpose of use is payment, investment, or savings, thereby completely eliminating the possibility of legalizing cryptocurrencies in Algeria. These acts are now classified as financial crimes, directly linked to money laundering and illegal capital flows.
Severe impact on the local cryptocurrency community
The ban is not limited to trading and ownership but also extends to cryptocurrency mining activities. Although mining activities are still modest in Algeria, there has been a certain level of growth, particularly in the southern regions where electricity costs are low. The new legal text absolutely prohibits the production, distribution, or promotion of any type of cryptocurrency, both in the digital space and in physical form.
Individuals who violate this law may face imprisonment from two months to one year, fines ranging from $1,530 to $7,653, or both penalties depending on the nature and severity of the offense. Penalties will significantly increase if the illegal activities are related to organized networks or large-scale financial crimes such as money laundering or funding banned organizations.
The new law is expected to directly impact a segment of Algerian youth who have actively used platforms like Binance, OKX, or Bybit through VPNs, or invested in mining equipment through unofficial channels. Financial and security forces will enhance digital monitoring and field inspections, in coordination with the Central Bank of Algeria, the Banking Supervisory Committee, and judicial authorities.
Experts believe that this legal reform aims to protect the Algerian financial market from the inherent risks of cryptocurrencies, while also aligning with international standards, particularly the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). This move places Algeria among the countries with the strictest anti-cryptocurrency policies in the world.