Russia’s State Duma Approves Bill on Digital Currency and Digital Rights

Russia’s State Duma has approved a bill that sets rules for the cryptocurrency market, establishing conditions for crypto asset operations inside the country and for cross-border trade. The parliament passed bill No. 1194918-8, titled “On Digital Currency and Digital Rights,” in its second and third readings on Tuesday, according to official parliamentary records. According to Cointelegraph, the legislation creates a regulated framework for crypto market participants, including crypto exchanges, brokers, asset managers and custodians, while also setting requirements for companies operating in the sector. The bill would permit crypto assets to be used in foreign trade operations, while payments for goods and services inside Russia would remain prohibited. Its main provisions are expected to take effect on Sept. 1, 2026, with a transition period lasting until July 1, 2027. The bill still needs to be signed by President Vladimir Putin before it can become law. Anatoly Aksakov, chairman of the State Duma’s Committee on Financial Markets, said lawmakers “maximally” considered industry feedback during the bill’s development, according to RBC Crypto.