- Turkey is planning to introduce crypto regulations, including specific licensing standards and taxation, to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
- The country, ranking fourth globally in crypto trading, aims to address money laundering and financial crimes through these regulations.
Regulatory Overhaul in Turkey’s Crypto Landscape
In a strategic move to enhance its financial integrity on the global stage, Turkey is reportedly considering implementing regulations in its burgeoning cryptocurrency market. The primary objectives of these regulations are to establish a licensing framework, improve taxation policies, and consequently remove Turkey from the “grey list” of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Addressing Global Compliance Standards
Turkey’s focus on licensing and taxation comes as part of a broader effort to align with international standards against money laundering and financial crimes. Bora Erdamar, a director at the BlockchainIST Center, a blockchain technology research and development center, highlighted that the upcoming crypto regulations would prioritize implementing specific licensing standards to curb system abuse.
Enhancements in Digital Security and Verification
The proposed regulations are set to cover various aspects crucial to the integrity of the crypto market, including capital adequacy standards, advancements in digital security, custody services, and verification of reserves. These measures aim to bolster the robustness and reliability of Turkey’s cryptocurrency sector.
Turkey’s Position in the Global Crypto Market
Turkey’s prominence in the global crypto market is noteworthy, ranking fourth in raw crypto transaction volumes, trailing only behind the United States, India, and the United Kingdom. With approximately $170 billion in transactions over the last year, as reported by Chainalysis, the country’s regulatory decisions could have significant implications for the global crypto landscape.
The Drive for Swift Regulation
Mehmet Türkarslan, legal director of Turkish cryptocurrency platform Paribu, stressed the urgency for swift cryptocurrency regulation. He emphasized the necessity for a regulatory framework, including licensing for virtual asset service providers, to ensure industry compliance and facilitate Turkey’s exit from the FATF grey list.
Impact of the Grey List Status
Countries on the FATF grey list are identified as having inadequate measures to combat money laundering and other financial crimes. This status necessitates collaboration with FATF to address these deficiencies and can significantly affect a country’s investment ratings and international reputation.
Accelerating Legislative Efforts
In October, Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek announced Ankara’s plans to fast-track new legislation for crypto assets. This move aims to fulfill the remaining FATF recommendations and remove Turkey from the grey list, thereby enhancing the country’s financial standing and investment appeal on the global stage.
