Is Crypto Legal in Mauritania?

Cryptocurrency exists in a legal gray area in Mauritania, with no comprehensive laws regulating digital assets as they are neither officially recognized as legal tender nor explicitly prohibited (2). The Central Bank of Mauritania has not introduced specific regulations to govern cryptocurrency use, though it has expressed caution regarding risks including fraud, market volatility, and illicit activities (2). The government appears to be adopting a wait-and-see approach, monitoring global trends and regulatory practices of neighboring countries (2).

The International Monetary Fund notes that only one-quarter of countries in sub-Saharan Africa formally regulate cryptocurrency, with two-thirds implementing some restrictions (1). While Mauritania has not banned crypto like six other African nations including Cameroon, Ethiopia, and Tanzania, the absence of clear regulations leaves users without legal protection for disputes, scams, or losses associated with cryptocurrency dealings (1). Africa has become one of the fastest-growing crypto markets globally, with transactions peaking at $20 billion per month in mid-2021 (1).

"So far, there are no comprehensive laws regulating crypto in Mauritania, as it is not officially recognized as legal tender, but it is also not prohibited."

The Central Bank of Mauritania is collaborating with Giesecke+Devrient in an exploratory project to develop a central bank digital currency named Digital Ouguiya, though it has not yet been announced whether it will rely on blockchain technology (2). Policymakers across Africa worry that cryptocurrencies can be used to transfer funds illegally and circumvent local rules preventing capital outflows, with widespread crypto use potentially undermining monetary policy effectiveness (1). Mauritania's financial institutions have yet to integrate cryptocurrencies into the formal banking system (2).

Source:
https://www.binance.com/en/square/post/29688650742954
https://www.imf.org/en/Blogs/Articles/2022/11/22/africas-growing-crypto-market-needs-better-regulations

Last updated: 19-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.