Iran Announces Cryptocurrency Regulations

• Iran is banking on cryptocurrency regulation to grow economically
• Cryptocurrencies under the jurisdiction of the Central Bank of Iran
• Iranian investors hold up to $50 billion in crypto assets

The Iranian government is signaling its intention to adopt a regulatory approach towards cryptocurrencies rather than implementing outright bans. The statement was made by Abdolnaser Hemmati, Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance, during a national event on Saturday. According to him, the government’s goal is to mitigate the potential negative effects of cryptocurrencies on the economy while leveraging their benefits.

The Central Bank of Iran (CBI) plans to introduce its digital currency, the Digital Rial, as part of a broader initiative to modernize the country's banking infrastructure and enhance international financial collaboration.
Mohammadreza Farzin, the governor of the CBI, broke in… https://t.co/B2Fr3Q2Ft1 pic.twitter.com/KJCKSAPX84

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According to state-run Nour News agency, Hemmati highlighted that digital currencies are under the jurisdiction of the Central Bank of Iran (CBI). He expressed optimism about the potential of cryptocurrencies to create jobs for young people, reduce the impact of US economic sanctions, and integrate Iran more effectively into the global economy.

On the same occasion, the Central Bank of Iran presented a document detailing the regulatory policies it intends to implement for the cryptocurrency sector. These guidelines aim to support cryptocurrency traders while ensuring compliance with local laws, including taxation rules and strict anti-money laundering (AML) measures.

Hemmati stressed that regulating cryptocurrencies is a strategic opportunity for Iran to strengthen its national assets and mitigate the impact of international sanctions. Local economists such as Mohammad Sadegh Alhosseini estimate that Iranian investors hold between $30 billion and $50 billion in crypto assets, an amount equivalent to roughly one-third of the country’s gold market. This figure illustrates the growing importance of cryptocurrencies as a way to preserve wealth amid a challenging economic environment.

The Central Bank of Iran also stressed the need for collaboration with other government entities to ensure that regulation is comprehensive and effective. Measures include issuing licenses to cryptocurrency brokers and custodians, as well as implementing policies that encourage innovation and responsible use of these digital assets.

This move is part of a broader effort by Iran to align itself with global trends in digital finance, demonstrating that the country seeks to balance economic innovation with regulatory stability. The decision to regulate, rather than ban, reflects a pragmatic strategy to position Iran as a relevant player in the international financial landscape.