Hong Kong Confirms 2026 Deadline for Crypto Licensing Framework
Hong Kong regulators are moving forward with their plans to implement a licensing regime for the crypto sector. The government confirmed its commitment to submitting an amendment bill by the end of 2026, which will cover four key categories: digital asset trading, custody, advisory, and management services. This initiative is part of a broader effort to establish a comprehensive framework for digital asset activities in the region.
Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of Hong Kong, announced during a policy briefing that the amendment bill would be introduced “within this year.” He emphasized that the bill is a response to the rapid advancements in financial technology and aims to provide a structured environment for the crypto industry.
In January, Hui had previously indicated that regulators were working on a draft proposal for crypto asset regulation, with a target submission date before the end of 2026. Additionally, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has begun processing license applications for stablecoin issuers, granting its first licenses to Anchorpoint Financial and the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation in April.