Russian State Duma Passes Crypto Regulation Bill, Allowing Foreign Trade Settlements but Prohibiting Domestic Crypto Payments

Odaily Planet Daily News The Russian State Duma has completed the second and third readings of Bill No. 1194918-8 on "Digital Currency and Digital Rights" and passed it successfully. The bill establishes a comprehensive licensing and regulatory framework for the crypto market, covering crypto exchanges, brokers, asset managers, and custodians, with the Central Bank of Russia responsible for issuing licenses and overseeing the market, according to RIA Novosti...

The policy implements differentiated rules: It allows enterprises to use digital assets for cross-border settlements in foreign trade, but strictly prohibits the use of cryptocurrencies for paying for goods and services within Russia. The core provisions of the bill are scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2026, with some supporting rules having a transition period until July 1, 2027. After passing through the Duma process, the bill must still be reviewed by the Federation Council and ultimately signed by President Vladimir Putin before it can officially become federal law.