Is Crypto Legal In Burundi?

Cryptocurrency is banned in Burundi following a decisive measure by the Bank of the Republic of Burundi. The central bank issued a statement declaring that virtual currencies do not have legal tender status in the country, as they are not regulated, issued, or guaranteed by any government or central authority (1). The ban encompasses all forms of cryptocurrency trading, mining, and remittance services, with authorities warning that strong measures will be taken against individuals who fail to comply with this prohibition (1).

The government justified the cryptocurrency ban as a consumer protection measure following reports of Burundian citizens losing money while trading digital assets. According to the central bank's statement, virtual currencies are traded on unregulated online platforms worldwide, and their highly volatile values result in speculative transactions that expose users to potential losses without legal recourse in case of value collapse or exchange platform closure (1). Alfred Nyobewumusi, Director of the Central Bank's Micro-finance division, emphasized that cryptocurrency users face significant risks due to the lack of regulatory oversight and accountability (1).

"Since virtual currencies or cryptocurrencies are not regulated and are not issued or guaranteed by any Government or Central Bank, these currencies do not have legal tender in the territory of Burundi."

Despite the restrictive stance on cryptocurrencies, Burundi has been working to develop its broader digital economy infrastructure through initiatives supported by international organizations. The World Bank's Digital Economy Assessment highlights that Burundi needs strategic investments in digital infrastructure, skills, platforms, and financial services to strengthen economic resilience and support digital transformation (2). The International Monetary Fund has also conducted financial sector stability reviews, identifying vulnerabilities in Burundi's banking system while focusing on strengthening regulatory capacity and crisis management frameworks rather than cryptocurrency adoption (2).

Source:
https://blockchain.bakermckenzie.com/2019/09/11/burundi-bans-cryptocurrency/
https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/605991608528899689/pdf/Burundi-Digital-Economy-Assessment.pdf

Last updated: 18-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.