As a seasoned crypto investor with a keen eye for regulatory changes and a knack for navigating the digital asset landscape, I find myself both intrigued and reassured by Taiwan’s updated Anti-Money Laundering regulations. While the deadline for registration might seem daunting, it’s a small price to pay for the increased security and compliance that these measures promise.


On October 2nd, Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) revealed revised Anti-Money Laundering (AML) guidelines. These changes aim to strengthen the surveillance of local providers offering virtual asset services (VASPs).

Entities that don’t follow the rules will face severe penalties instead. The updated Anti-Money Laundering (AML) guidelines will replace the current system entirely.

Updated AML Regulations Aim to Strengthen Crypto Oversight

Based on the official announcement, starting from January 1, 2025, it is mandatory for all cryptocurrency businesses to register with the Taiwanese authorities by September 2025.

Failure to comply will result in severe consequences, such as imprisonment for up to two years or a fine equivalent to around $155,900 in New Taiwan dollars.

In simpler terms, Taiwan enforced its prior rules concerning cryptocurrency anti-money laundering back in July 2021. Now, with a new announcement, businesses that have already complied will need to re-register with the Financial Supervisory Commission to prevent potential fines.

Since March, the regulatory body has been actively planning for these impending modifications, underscoring the importance of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) submitting an annual risk assessment report to the appropriate oversight agencies.

Furthermore, the Commission recommends that Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) delay their document submissions until the new registration system is established. This step is taken to prevent any difficulties arising from having to reapply under revised rules after the new system comes into effect.

In an effort to strengthen its digital asset regulations, Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) intends to suggest new cryptocurrency-related laws by June 2025, with a preliminary draft likely ready by the end of 2024. This move aims to maintain a secure and compliant local crypto environment.

FSC Greenlights ETFs for Professional Investors

In contrast to stricter Anti-Money Laundering regulations, Taiwan seems to be relaxing its cryptocurrency rules in specific sectors, all while exercising caution regarding market uncertainties. Recently, the Financial Supervisory Commission has authorized professional investors to interact with exchange-traded funds (ETFs) related to foreign digital assets.

The Financial Standards Council has identified substantial investment risks linked to Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) focused on foreign virtual assets, and they advise that only experienced investors, including institutions, wealthy clients, and knowledgeable individuals, should have access to these investments.

Among the essential elements, there’s a plan to establish an evaluation system for these items, compulsory risk alerts for individual clients prior to their first purchases, and extensive product details disclosure. Furthermore, financial institutions are obligated to offer ongoing training and education for their employees about virtual assets, ensuring they possess comprehensive knowledge.

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2024-10-06 23:14