Taliban Cracks Down on Crypto Trading in Afghanistan

The Taliban has implemented a nationwide ban on cryptocurrency trading in Afghanistan, effectively shutting down exchange shops and arresting traders.

At least 13 traders have been arrested, and over 20 crypto exchange shops have been closed in Herat, a key trading hub near the Iranian border.

The Ministry of Finance and central bank have classified digital assets as fraudulent, stating that crypto speculation is akin to gambling under Islamic law.

This move aligns with the Taliban's efforts to reimpose strict interpretations of Sharia law, which also includes bans on interest-based banking and certain financial instruments.