Starting April 1, the Russian government has imposed a year-round ban on cryptocurrency mining in several areas of the Republic of Buryatia and Zabaykalsky Krai. This ban will last for five years, until March 15, 2031.
In Buryatia, the ban affects 19 districts and the city of Ulan-Ude. In Zabaykalsky Krai, it applies to 14 districts, 14 municipalities, Chita, the village of Aginskoye, and the closed administrative-territorial formation of Gorny.
Previously, seasonal restrictions on mining were in place here.
The practice of completely banning digital currency mining in certain regions was introduced in December 2024.
Additionally, on March 31, a bill was submitted to the State Duma proposing criminal liability for illegal mining and unauthorized services from relevant infrastructure operators.
The document suggests penalties of up to 2 million rubles and imprisonment for up to five years for violators. Stricter penalties are proposed for organized groups causing significant harm or generating substantial income. Criminal liability can be avoided if full restitution is made.
The authors of the initiative cited the need for prison sentences due to miners' reluctance to register with the Federal Tax Service (FNS). According to expert estimates, out of 50,000 potential market participants, only 1,489 are registered.
The bill is expected to be adopted during the spring session, with its provisions coming into effect on July 1.
Recall that on March 30, the government approved a package of bills aimed at legalizing the circulation of digital currencies and digital rights in Russia. This package is planned to be submitted to the State Duma in early April.
ForkLog has analyzed its provisions in a special podcast. A text version is also available.