The Russian Federation formally cemented the legal status of using cryptocurrencies for settling foreign trade operations in October 2025. This decisive action formalized the Experimental Legal Regime (EPR) that had been initiated just one month prior, in September 2025, marking a significant reevaluation of the nation's international financial interactions. Finance Minister Anton Siluanov clarified that this legalization merely systematizes practices already common among businesses: utilizing the crypto market to pay for imports and facilitate fund withdrawals. This pragmatic response is explicitly designed to guarantee the continuity of external payment channels amidst ongoing international restrictions and sanctions.
Regulators have been quick to emphasize that while this move alleviates certain burdens imposed by sanctions, stringent control remains paramount. To mitigate the inherent risks associated with volatility and potential misuse, a rigorous oversight system is being implemented. The Federal Financial Monitoring Service (Rosfinmonitoring) is tasked with ensuring compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) standards. Crucially, all transactions conducted under this new framework must pass exclusively through regulated infrastructure, which is maintained under the direct supervision of the Central Bank. It is vital to note that this legalization is strictly confined to foreign economic activity; the domestic circulation of cryptocurrencies remains prohibited, underscoring the policy's objective to safeguard the stability of the ruble.
Further developing the regulatory landscape, Deputy Chairman of the Central Bank Vladimir Chistyukhin indicated that the possibility of allowing commercial banks to participate in digital asset operations is under consideration. However, such participation would be subject to substantial limitations concerning capital requirements and reserve norms. This strategic maneuver is also intended to reinforce financial ties with key partners who have not joined the sanctions regime, specifically citing nations such as China, India, and Turkey, thereby diversifying Russia's financial architecture.
In parallel with the legalization of controlled operations, the Prosecutor General’s Office is intensifying efforts to suppress unregulated activity. On October 21, Prosecutor General Alexander Gutsan announced the development of new legislative norms that will define liability for the illegal organization of digital currency circulation. These measures include provisions for the seizure of such assets and their subsequent forfeiture to the state. This action establishes a clear demarcation line between sanctioned foreign trade activities and unauthorized dealings, highlighting the system's determination to adapt to external challenges by transforming obstacles into opportunities for strengthening its own financial architecture.