Turkmenistan Legalizes Crypto Mining and Trading, Ushering in Regulated Virtual Assets Era

Quick Breakdown

• President Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed the law on virtual assets in late November 2025, effective January 1, 2026.
• ​Non-residents can mine crypto after registration; mining pools and licensed exchanges are now permitted with KYC, AML, and cold storage rules.
• ​Digital assets enter the civil law framework but hold no legal tender status amid tight government internet controls.

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Turkmenistan enacts Virtual Assets Law after Presidential approval

Turkmenistan has shifted its stance on digital assets. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov approved the “Law of Turkmenistan on Virtual Assets” at the end of November 2025. The measure took effect on January 1, 2026, legalizing cryptocurrency mining and trading for the first time. The legislation integrates virtual assets into the country’s civil law system. It establishes a licensing regime overseen by the Cabinet of Ministers and the Ministry of Finance and Economy. Crypto exchanges must secure licenses, implement know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) protocols, and maintain specific cold storage standards.

🇹🇲 TURKMENISTAN LEGALIZES CRYPTO MINING & EXCHANGES FROM 2026

🔹 Turkmenistan will allow crypto mining and exchange operations starting January 2026 under a new law, but only for licensed entities.

🔹 Crypto can be held and traded, but cannot be used as a payment method.

🔹… pic.twitter.com/Pz0DkTFthO

— ThuanCapitalGlobal (@ThuanGlobal) January 1, 2026

Mining operations gain formal recognition. Both residents and registered non-residents can participate in cryptocurrency mining. The law also allows the creation of mining pools, opening doors for organized operations in the sector.

This move positions Turkmenistan, Central Asia’s top natural gas exporter, to tap into blockchain opportunities. Authorities aim to curb illegal activities while protecting users and spurring innovation through regulated channels.

Regulatory framework targets compliance and oversight

Licensed entities face rigorous supervision. The central bank manages exchange licensing, with powers to suspend or revoke approvals for non-compliance. Crypto holds no status as payment means, legal tender, or securities. Internet restrictions persist in Turkmenistan, one of the world’s most isolated nations. Government controls could limit practical adoption despite the legal green light.

​The framework draws parallels to global trends. Countries like Kazakhstan lead in mining due to energy resources, while others impose bans. Turkmenistan’s abundant gas reserves may fuel mining growth if infrastructure aligns.

Industry observers note potential economic boosts. Regulated trading could attract foreign investment and diversify beyond hydrocarbons. However, enforcement details remain key to success.

Turkmenistan’s regulatory framework offers a path to capture blockchain opportunity while mitigating risks. This legal approach is critical, as seen by Malaysia’s US$1.11 billion loss from illegal crypto mining, underscoring the need for strict government oversight.