The Chinese government is intensifying its efforts to regulate the use of cryptocurrencies in illegal foreign exchange (forex) trading, particularly focusing on the misuse of stablecoins like Tether (USDT). In a joint statement issued by the Supreme People’s Procuratorate and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) on December 28, prosecutors and forex regulators are urged to enhance supervision and crack down on unlawful transactions involving cryptocurrencies. This initiative is part of China’s broader strategy to combat financial fraud and maintain stability in its forex market.
The recent statement from SPP and SAFE highlights cases where USDT has been used as a medium for exchanging yuan with other currencies. Authorities have declared the conversion of yuan into cryptocurrency for further conversion into foreign currencies, and vice versa, as illegal in China. This includes not only the direct participants in illegal transactions but also those providing technical support, such as website development and maintenance for these activities. China is sending a strong message that even accomplices will face legal consequences.
China’s strict stance on cryptocurrencies is reflected in several high-profile cases. In one instance, a crypto trader in Dubai was sentenced to seven years in jail and fined 2.3 million yuan for illegally exchanging over 22 million UAE dirhams into Chinese yuan using Tether. Another case involved transactions exceeding 220 million yuan using Tether between 2018 and 2021, resulting in a five-year imprisonment and a 200,000 yuan fine for the developer of the payment websites. These examples emphasize the gravity of the situation and the measures China is taking to discourage illegal forex activities.
Although China has officially banned cryptocurrency trading and mining, the underground cryptocurrency market in the country, particularly in East Asia, remains significant. Traders often use digital assets to bypass regulations and take advantage of the arbitrage opportunities between foreign and local currencies. Recent police reports from Qingdao in Shandong province have unveiled a massive 15.8 billion yuan money laundering case involving cryptocurrencies and illegal forex trading. These incidents highlight the urgent need for stringent regulation in the sector to safeguard the country’s financial systems.
Despite the strict cryptocurrency ban, the Chinese government is adopting a nuanced approach by drafting a national Web3 development plan. This plan signals China’s willingness to explore the potential benefits of blockchain technology while simultaneously cracking down on its misuse in illegal activities. It reflects the authorities’ recognition of the importance of technological advancements and their desire to capitalize on them for economic development.
China’s crackdown on cryptocurrencies and illegal forex transactions is a clear message to those engaged in or facilitating such activities. The government is committed to safeguarding its financial systems and will not hesitate to take decisive action against any threats to its economic stability and security. As China continues to refine its regulatory framework and enforce strict measures, it sends a stern warning to individuals and entities involved in illegal forex trading that there will be serious consequences for their actions.
China’s intensified efforts to regulate the use of cryptocurrencies in illegal forex transactions demonstrate its commitment to combating financial fraud and promoting stability in the forex market. By cracking down on the misuse of stablecoins and prosecuting offenders, China aims to create a secure and transparent financial environment. Furthermore, its exploration of blockchain technology through the national Web3 development plan shows a willingness to embrace technological advancements while ensuring they are not exploited for illegal activities. As the Chinese government continues to prioritize the protection of its financial systems, individuals and entities involved in illegal forex trading should be aware of the severe consequences they may face.