Russia Expands Crypto Mining Ban to Moscow Through 2032

Russia has expanded its ban on cryptocurrency mining to Moscow and the surrounding region through December 31, 2032. The move aims to limit pressure on electricity networks serving the country's largest economic center. According to Resolution No. 936, signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on July 25, the ban will take effect on August 15, 2026.

The expansion of the ban is notable because Moscow and its surrounding region contain a large concentration of data centers, businesses, and residential consumers. The Moscow Region's Energy Ministry previously argued that mining restrictions were needed due to rising power consumption. The ministry estimated that Moscow and the Moscow Region had 65 data centers connected to the electricity grid with a combined capacity of 734 megawatts.

The ban does not impose a nationwide prohibition on cryptocurrency mining, but rather adopts a regional approach that permits activity in some areas while restricting it in regions facing grid shortages. The government has increasingly sought to register and supervise miners while directing activity toward areas where electricity supply can support it without disrupting households or strategic industries.

For Russian miners, the ban reduces the number of commercially attractive locations available to them. Operators may have to relocate equipment, secure capacity in permitted regions, or leave machines idle, raising costs and increasing pressure on smaller businesses.