The government has approved the draft law “On Crypto-Asset Markets,” paving the way for a new regulatory framework in a sector that until now has operated with little legal clarity. According to the government and the Financial Supervisory Authority, the initiative aims to establish rules for trading and services related to crypto-assets, with an emphasis on transparency and investor protection.
What the government approved
The decision was approved on October 2 by the Council of Ministers, while the draft law was prepared by the Financial Supervisory Authority.
According to the official version, the new law aims to build a complete framework for the crypto-asset market in Albania, covering both trading and the provision of services related to this activity.
Alignment with European Union rules
The draft law provides for the alignment of Albanian legislation with EU Regulation 2023/1114, known as MiCA.
Within this framework, rules are envisaged for the issuance of crypto-assets, the operation of trading platforms, their custody and exchange, as well as other services linked to this market.
Promises of transparency and protection
One of the main objectives presented by the government is the protection of investors and increased transparency in a market that carries high risks.
The draft law sets requirements for capital, corporate governance, the management of conflicts of interest, cybersecurity, and measures against market abuse and money laundering.
Different rules depending on risk
Another element envisaged is different treatment for categories of crypto-assets, depending on the characteristics and level of risk they present.
According to the government, this framework aims for crypto-asset operators in Albania to operate under clearer rules harmonized with European standards.
Approval by the government is only the first step in an initiative affecting a delicate market with high exposure to risk. The real test will be implementation, supervision, and the ability of institutions to turn this framework into effective control, not simply a standard written on paper.