Russia's State Duma Passes Bill Setting Rules for Digital Assets and Cross-Border Trade

Russia's State Duma has passed bill No. 1194918-8, titled Digital Currency and Digital Rights, in its second and third readings on Tuesday. According to Odaily, the bill sets rules for domestic crypto asset operations and cross-border trade. The legislation creates a regulatory framework for market participants including crypto exchanges, brokers, asset management firms, and custodians, and it sets operating requirements for industry companies. It allows crypto assets to be used for foreign trade transactions, while payments for goods and services inside Russia remain banned. The main provisions are expected to take effect on September 1, 2026, with a transition period lasting until July 1, 2027. The bill still needs to be signed by President Vladimir Putin before it becomes law.