Russia Introduces Regional Bans and Seasonal Limits on Crypto Mining

Starting in 2025, Russia will impose strict limitations on cryptocurrency mining, including a full ban in 10 regions and seasonal restrictions in others.

These measures, in effect until 2031, aim to address energy concerns and align with recent legislative updates.

Regions such as Dagestan, Chechnya, and the Donetsk and Lugansk territories will see mining operations completely prohibited. Meanwhile, Siberian areas like Irkutsk and Buryatia will face partial restrictions during winter months to manage electricity demand. Initially, these seasonal rules will apply from January to mid-March in 2025 but will extend to cover November through March in subsequent years.

The restrictions reflect a revision of earlier proposals, which had suggested broader bans, including in major mining hubs like Irkutsk. This region, known for its inexpensive energy and hosting large data centers such as BitRiver’s facility in Bratsk, remains a critical player in Russia’s mining industry.

Despite the changes, the long-term impact on businesses in these areas remains uncertain, as key industry players have refrained from commenting publicly.

With these targeted measures, Russia seeks to regulate mining activity without entirely sidelining its role in the global cryptocurrency ecosystem.