Belarus Registers First Crypto Banks Under New Regulatory Framework
Belarus has taken a significant step in regulating its crypto industry by registering its first two crypto banks under Presidential Decree No. 19. The institutions, which are residents of the High-Tech Park (HTP), will need to obtain approval from the National Bank's registry before starting operations, expected in the second half of 2026.
The new framework allows a single entity to manage fiat currency deposits, digital asset custody, and token-based transfers. This approach sets Belarus apart from other jurisdictions that treat crypto and banking licenses as separate regulatory domains.
Belarus has been actively promoting its tech industry, with the HTP serving as a special economic zone since 2005. The Presidential Decree No. 19, signed by President Alexander Lukashenko on January 16, 2026, aims to channel crypto activities towards state-sanctioned entities with clear regulatory obligations.