Algeria recently enacted a sweeping new law that criminalizes any form of use, exchange, or mining of cryptocurrencies. The move is reportedly intended to protect the national financial system and bolster defenses against money laundering and terrorist financing.

According to a report, the comprehensive legal framework is established by Law No. 25-10 of July 24, 2025, published in Official Journal No. 48. This legislation significantly amends and supplements Law No. 05-01, which pertains to the prevention and fight against money laundering and the financing of terrorism. The move, long in the making, marks a shift in Algeria’s stance on digital assets—transitioning from earlier cautionary messaging to a formal ban and the explicit criminalization of all crypto-related activities within its borders.

As per Article 6a of the legislation, the issuance, purchase, sale, possession and promotion of digital currencies is prohibited. The law also criminalizes the creation or operation of cryptocurrency trading platforms and the use of digital wallets—whether directly or via third parties or online services.

These activities are now officially classified as financial offenses directly linked to money laundering and illicit capital flows. The law broadly defines crypto-assets as “property, income, funds or financial assets,” regardless of their intended purpose (payment, investment, or savings), effectively eliminating any pathway for their legalization in Algeria.

The prohibition extends beyond just transactions and possession to encompass the mining of cryptocurrencies, which involves their production through intensive computing resources. This practice, although relatively marginal in Algeria, had seen some growth, particularly in southern regions, where the low cost of electricity made it an attractive venture.

The new legal text specifically prohibits the production, distribution, or promotion of any virtual currency, both within the digital space and physically on Algerian territory, thereby bringing all relevant actors under the purview of the law.

Under the new law, individuals involved in the illegal use of cryptocurrencies are liable to a prison sentence ranging from two months to one year, a fine between $1,530 and $7,653 or both penalties simultaneously, depending on the specifics and gravity of the offense. Penalties can be significantly increased if the illicit activities are found to be linked to organized networks or broader financial criminal endeavors, such as money laundering or the financing of prohibited groups, whether within Algeria or internationally.

Some “experts” claim that this legislative reform is designed to shield the Algerian financial market from the inherent risks associated with cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, the move is said to align with international standards, particularly those advocated by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

The new law is expected to have a direct and significant impact on a segment of Algerian youth who have been actively using platforms like Binance, OKX, or Bybit, often via VPNs, or who have invested in mining equipment acquired through informal channels. Financial, and security officials are expected to step up digital and on-the-ground monitoring in coordination with the Bank of Algeria, the Banking Commission, and judicial bodies.

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