Russia Set to Launch Crypto Payment Trials Next Week, Report

Russia is reportedly set to start trials for cryptocurrency exchanges and digital token payments on Sept. 1 to mitigate payment difficulties caused by international sanctions. These trials will involve the National Payment Card System and could lead to the establishment of crypto trading platforms if successful. Legislation was recently passed to legalize crypto mining and regulate digital tokens for cross-border transactions under the central bank’s oversight.

Trials for Crypto Payments in Russia Set to Begin Next Week

Russia is close to starting trials for cryptocurrency exchanges and digital token payments for cross-border transactions, Bloomberg reported Monday. The trials, which are set to begin on Sept. 1, aim to alleviate payment difficulties for Russian companies impacted by international sanctions, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The trials will use the National Payment Card System to facilitate conversions between rubles and cryptocurrencies and to test payment and exchange platforms. Established by the central bank in 2014, this system, which already oversees domestic interbank payments and Mir cards, was chosen for its existing infrastructure and regulatory framework.

In July, the Russian parliament passed legislation to legalize crypto mining and establish a framework for experimenting with digital tokens for cross-border transactions under central bank supervision. President Vladimir Putin signed these bills into law on Aug. 8. This move to explore cryptocurrency options comes as Russian businesses face increasing challenges in making and receiving payments for overseas transactions due to heightened sanctions from the U.S. government.

Finance Minister Anton Siluanov stated on Aug. 14 that authorities are seeking ways to legalize cryptocurrency exchanges, although a solution has not yet been determined, as reported by Tass news agency.

If the trials prove successful, Russia may permit the Moscow Exchange and St. Petersburg Currency Exchange to establish cryptocurrency trading platforms next year. According to the sources, any existing cryptocurrency could be used for the trials.