Tonga
Retail_Trading_Status
Status Changed
Previous status: Unclear
The primary difference between the two analyses lies in the assessed "Current Status" of retail cryptocurrency trading in Tonga, which shifted from "Unclear" in the previous analysis to "Allowed-Unregulated" in the new analysis. Justification for the differences: 1. Interpretation of "Absence of Prohibition": The previous analysis labeled the status "Unclear" primarily because, while there were no explicit laws prohibiting individuals from buying, selling, or holding cryptocurrencies, the lack of a specific, comprehensive legal and regulatory framework created significant ambiguity. The focus was on the underdeveloped regulatory environment, the NRBT's warnings, the non-issuance of licenses for crypto service providers, and the pending full implementation of a VASP-specific AML/CFT regime. This led to a conclusion that the overall situation was too ambiguous to definitively state it was "allowed" without major caveats. The new analysis interprets the same absence of an explicit prohibition more directly as "Allowed" for individual citizens and residents. It acknowledges the same lack of a specific framework by terming it "Unregulated." This interpretation leans more on the principle that if an activity is not explicitly forbidden for individuals, it is permitted, even if it operates in a regulatory vacuum. 2. Influence of Newer/Different Sources and Emphasis: The new analysis incorporates more recent secondary sources, notably blog posts from "Carlos Maiz" dated into 2025, which explicitly state "Cryptocurrency ownership and trading are legal" and that "No formal crypto regulations currently in place." While the UPay blog was cited in both, the new analysis more directly uses its statement "Yes, cryptocurrency is legal in Tonga" to support the "Allowed" status. The previous analysis, while using UPay, focused more on the "lacks a clear legal or regulatory framework" aspect from the same source to support its "Unclear" conclusion. The direct assertion of "legality" in these newer or differently emphasized sources seems to have influenced the shift from a more cautious "Unclear" to a more definitive "Allowed." 3. Refinement of Categorization: The status "Allowed-Unregulated" is a more nuanced categorization than simply "Unclear." It separates the act of individual trading (Allowed) from the state of the regulatory environment (Unregulated). The previous "Unclear" status conflated these two aspects, suggesting the lack of regulation made the legality itself uncertain. The new analysis clarifies that the *activity* itself is not banned for individuals, but the *environment* in which it occurs lacks specific rules. 4. Consistency in Factual Basis: It's important to note that both analyses largely agree on the fundamental facts: * The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) has stated cryptocurrencies are not legal tender. * The NRBT has warned the public about risks associated with crypto investments. * Entities offering crypto investment services within Tonga would require a license, and no such licenses have been issued. * Tonga lacks a specific, comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and VASPs. * AML/CFT measures for VASPs, as per FATF recommendations, are not fully implemented or assessed in a specific Tongan VASP regime. * Individuals likely access offshore platforms for trading. The difference is not in these underlying facts but in the ultimate conclusion drawn from them regarding the "status." The new analysis provides a more direct answer to whether individuals are "legally permitted" (yes, by virtue of no prohibition) while still fully detailing the significant regulatory gaps. In essence, the new analysis provides a more assertive interpretation of the existing legal vacuum. By stating "Allowed-Unregulated," it acknowledges that individuals are not legally barred from trading, while simultaneously highlighting the absence of a specific regulatory structure, which was the primary reason for the "Unclear" status in the previous report. The availability of more recent secondary sources explicitly using terms like "legal" likely contributed to this more definitive, albeit qualified, stance.
- Analysis ID
- #532
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- 2025-06-26 13:25
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Executive Summary
As of June 2025, Tonga's retail crypto trading environment remains "Allowed-Unregulated." While there are no specific laws or regulations governing cryptocurrencies, individuals are permitted to engage in crypto trading, primarily through offshore platforms, albeit at their own risk. The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) has clarified that cryptocurrency is not legal tender in the country. Tonga is actively engaged in strengthening its Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework in collaboration with international bodies like the FATF and APG, with a new FinTech Regulatory Sandbox Framework recently launched in June 2025, signaling preparatory steps toward future oversight. However, no crypto-specific regulations have been introduced or enforced to date.
Key Pillars
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Lack of Crypto-Specific Laws: There are currently no formal laws or guidelines specifically tailored to the issuance, trading, or use of cryptocurrencies.
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AML/CFT Framework Development: Tonga is actively working to enhance its broader AML/CFT framework, which, while not crypto-specific, will indirectly impact any financial activities, including those involving digital assets. The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) acts as the Transaction Reporting Authority (TRA) and functions as Tonga's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), responsible for detecting and preventing money laundering and terrorist financing activities under the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act (MLPCA).
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Regulatory Sandbox Initiative: A significant development in June 2025 was the launch of Tonga's FinTech Regulatory Sandbox Framework by the National Reserve Bank of Tonga. This framework aims to allow financial institutions and fintech innovators to test new products and services in a controlled environment under NRBT supervision, supporting goals like improving payment systems and facilitating remittances, which could eventually include crypto-related innovations.
Landmark Laws
Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act (MLPCA)
- Authority: National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) as the Transaction Reporting Authority (TRA) / Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
- Date: The MLPCA forms the basis of Tonga's AML/CFT legislative framework, with amendments and ongoing efforts to strengthen it noted in various reports up to 2021 and beyond.
- Summary: This Act mandates customer due diligence, reporting of suspicious transactions, and record-keeping for financial institutions and cash dealers, serving as the general legal basis for combating financial crime. While not explicitly mentioning crypto, it provides the existing framework that would apply to any financial service providers if crypto services were formally regulated. Tonga's AML/CFT system, however, has faced challenges in its effectiveness and technical compliance with FATF recommendations, with a 2021 APG Mutual Evaluation Report highlighting deficiencies.
Considerations
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Asset Classification: There is no formal classification of crypto assets in Tonga. The National Reserve Bank of Tonga has stated that cryptocurrency is not legal tender.
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Tax Implications: Tonga does not have specific tax laws for cryptocurrencies. The country has a 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST) rather than an income tax, which could implicitly apply to consumption related to crypto. Capital gains taxation is 0% in Tonga. For individuals using offshore platforms, general tax principles would likely apply, but without specific guidance for crypto. It is important to note that a country that does not tax capital gains will also typically not tax crypto, but high-frequency traders might be considered to be carrying on a trade, which could be subject to taxation.
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Consumer Protection: As the market is unregulated, there are no formal protections or guidelines in place for individuals trading crypto. Individuals use offshore platforms at their own risk. The NRBT has warned about the risks of investing in volatile assets like cryptocurrencies.
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Offshore Platforms: Residents can access major international exchanges to buy, sell, and trade digital assets securely, as there are no Tonga-based licensed crypto exchanges to date.
Notes
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FATF/APG Engagement: Tonga is a member of the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) and is actively working to strengthen its AML/CFT system. Tonga underwent its second Mutual Evaluation in 2019, with the report adopted and published by the APG in September 2021. The FATF has noted Tonga's commitment to improving its AML/CFT framework. A June 2025 FATF report found that 70% of jurisdictions were rated non-compliant or only partially compliant with Recommendation 15 (related to new technologies), indicating a global challenge in crypto regulation.
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FinTech Regulatory Sandbox: The National Reserve Bank of Tonga launched its FinTech Regulatory Sandbox Framework on June 3, 2025. This initiative allows for the testing of innovative digital financial solutions in a controlled environment and aligns with Tonga's commitment to promoting financial stability and inclusion. While not explicitly for crypto, it provides a pathway for future crypto-related innovations to be tested and potentially integrated into the formal financial system under supervision.
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CBDC Exploration: The adoption of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) is currently under exploration by the National Reserve Bank of Tonga.
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Historical Proposals: While a proposal to make Bitcoin legal tender gained attention around mid-2021 and a bill was planned for May 2022, this has not materialized, and cryptocurrency is not currently legal tender.
Detailed Explanation
Detailed Explanation
Tonga's regulatory stance on retail crypto trading as of June 2025 can be characterized as "Allowed-Unregulated," reflecting a nascent but evolving approach to digital assets. There is a clear absence of specific legislation or dedicated frameworks designed to govern cryptocurrencies, distinguishing Tonga from jurisdictions with comprehensive crypto laws. This means that while individuals are not prohibited from engaging in crypto trading, they do so without formal consumer protections or regulatory guidelines. The primary avenues for retail trading in Tonga remain international offshore platforms, as no licensed, Tonga-based crypto exchanges currently exist.Despite the lack of specific crypto regulation, Tonga is actively engaged in bolstering its broader financial integrity architecture, particularly in the realm of Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT). The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT) serves as the country's central bank and its Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) through the Transaction Reporting Authority (TRA), operating under the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act (MLPCA). This existing legal framework mandates financial institutions to implement customer due diligence, report suspicious transactions, and maintain records, which would become relevant for any entity offering crypto services should formal regulation be introduced. Tonga is a member of the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) and has been undergoing mutual evaluations to assess and strengthen its AML/CFT system, although challenges and deficiencies have been noted in past reports.A significant recent development occurred in June 2025 with the launch of the FinTech Regulatory Sandbox Framework by the National Reserve Bank of Tonga. This initiative, supported by the Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI), is designed to provide a controlled environment for testing innovative financial products and services. While not exclusively for cryptocurrencies, this sandbox provides a crucial pathway for fintech innovations, including potential crypto-related solutions, to be explored under regulatory oversight, signaling a preparatory step towards more structured engagement with digital finance. The NRBT's broader objectives of promoting financial stability, efficiency, and inclusion underpin this initiative, indicating a forward-looking perspective on technological advancements in the financial sector.From a tax perspective, Tonga does not impose specific taxes on cryptocurrencies. The country's tax system primarily relies on a 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST) rather than an income tax, and it maintains a 0% capital gains tax. This implies that occasional crypto gains might not be explicitly taxed, though high-volume trading could potentially be viewed differently under general business income principles. The National Reserve Bank of Tonga has explicitly stated that cryptocurrency is not legal tender, and any entities wishing to offer crypto-related services would need a license, though none have been issued to date. This reinforces the notion that the market operates informally and at the individual's own risk, lacking formal protections or clear guidelines concerning asset classification or consumer recourse. Discussions about the potential for a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) are also ongoing, reflecting a broader governmental interest in digital financial innovation.
Summary Points
Here's a clear, well-structured bullet point summary of Tonga's Retail Crypto Trading Regulations as of June 2025:
### Tonga's Retail Crypto Trading Regulations: Key Points (June 2025)
I. Current Regulatory Status
* Overall Status: Allowed-Unregulated.
* Specific Laws: No specific laws or regulations currently govern cryptocurrencies.
* Individual Trading: Permitted, primarily through offshore platforms, but at the individual's own risk.
* Legal Tender: Cryptocurrency is explicitly not recognized as legal tender by the National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT).
II. Key Regulatory Bodies and Their Roles
* National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT):
* Functions as Tonga's central bank.
* Acts as the Transaction Reporting Authority (TRA) and Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
* Responsible for Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) oversight.
* Launched the FinTech Regulatory Sandbox Framework.
* Warns the public about the risks associated with volatile assets like cryptocurrencies.
* Currently exploring the adoption of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
* Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG):
* Tonga is a member of this international body.
* Collaborates with Tonga to strengthen its AML/CFT system through mutual evaluations and recommendations.
III. Important Legislation and Regulations
* No Crypto-Specific Legislation: There are no formal laws or guidelines specifically tailored to the issuance, trading, or use of cryptocurrencies.
* Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act (MLPCA):
* Purpose: Forms the foundational basis of Tonga's broader AML/CFT legislative framework.
* Authority: Enforced by the NRBT (TRA/FIU).
* Requirements: Mandates customer due diligence (CDD), reporting of suspicious transactions (STR), and record-keeping for financial institutions and cash dealers.
* Indirect Impact: While not explicitly mentioning crypto, this Act provides the existing framework that would apply to any financial service providers if crypto services were formally regulated in the future.
* Effectiveness: Tonga's AML/CFT system has faced challenges in effectiveness and technical compliance with FATF recommendations (as highlighted in a 2021 APG Mutual Evaluation Report).
* Proposed Legislation (Not Materialized): A bill to make Bitcoin legal tender was discussed in 2022 but has not been enacted.
IV. Requirements for Compliance (Indirect)
* For Individuals: No specific compliance requirements for retail trading, as it operates in an unregulated space. Individuals use offshore platforms.
* For Potential Future Crypto Service Providers:
* Would likely fall under the existing Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act (MLPCA).
* Would need to comply with general AML/CFT obligations (e.g., CDD, STR, record-keeping).
* Any entity wishing to offer crypto-related services would likely require a license from the NRBT, though none have been issued to date.
* Regulatory Sandbox: Participation in the FinTech Regulatory Sandbox involves operating under NRBT supervision within a controlled environment.
V. Notable Restrictions and Limitations
* Unregulated Market: The absence of specific regulations means there are no formal consumer protections or clear regulatory guidelines for crypto trading.
* No Legal Tender Status: Cryptocurrencies are not recognized as official currency.
* No Tonga-Based Licensed Exchanges: Residents must rely on international offshore platforms for trading.
* Consumer Risk: Individuals engage in crypto trading at their own risk, without formal recourse or protection, and are warned by the NRBT about volatility.
* Asset Classification: There is no formal classification of crypto assets within Tonga's legal framework.
VI. Tax Implications
* No Specific Crypto Tax Laws: Tonga does not have dedicated tax laws for cryptocurrencies.
* Goods and Services Tax (GST): A 15% GST applies generally to consumption, which could implicitly apply to crypto-related transactions.
* Capital Gains Tax: Tonga has a 0% capital gains tax.
* Income Tax: Tonga does not have a general income tax. However, high-frequency traders might potentially be considered to be carrying on a trade, which could be subject to taxation under general business principles, though specific guidance for crypto is absent.
VII. Recent Developments and Future Outlook
* FinTech Regulatory Sandbox Framework Launch (June 2025):
* Launched by the NRBT on June 3, 2025.
* Allows financial institutions and fintech innovators to test new products and services in a controlled environment under NRBT supervision.
* Aims to improve payment systems and facilitate remittances, potentially including crypto-related innovations.
* Signals a preparatory step towards more structured engagement with digital finance.
* Ongoing AML/CFT Strengthening:
* Tonga is actively working with international bodies like the FATF and APG to enhance its AML/CFT framework.
* Globally, many jurisdictions (70% in a June 2025 FATF report) are still non-compliant or partially compliant with recommendations related to new technologies, indicating a widespread challenge in crypto regulation.
* Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Exploration: The NRBT is actively exploring the potential adoption of a CBDC.
* Historical Proposals: While a proposal to make Bitcoin legal tender gained attention around 2021-2022, it has not materialized, reinforcing the current "not legal tender" status.
Full Analysis Report
Full Analysis Report
Retail_Trading_Status in Tonga
Report Date: 2025-06-26
Topic: Retail_Trading_Status
Description: Assess whether individual citizens and residents in the country are legally permitted to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies. Detail the regulatory environment surrounding this activity (e.g., KYC/AML requirements imposed on platforms, general warnings issued).
Identified Status: Allowed-UnRegulated
Narrative Explanation:
Retail cryptocurrency trading, including the buying, selling, and holding of cryptocurrencies by individual citizens and residents, is currently considered legal in Tonga. However, the nation presently lacks a specific, comprehensive legal or regulatory framework designed explicitly for cryptocurrencies and related activities. This absence of crypto-focused regulation means that while the activity is not prohibited, it operates without specific governance, licensing requirements for individuals, or particular tax rules aimed at cryptocurrency transactions.
The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT), the country's central bank, has clarified that cryptocurrency is not legal tender in Tonga. In June 2021, the NRBT issued a public statement addressing social media and mainstream media discussions about Bitcoin potentially becoming legal tender. The NRBT emphasized that any entity offering investments in crypto-assets like Bitcoin in Tonga would require a license, and importantly, no such licenses had been issued. The bank also warned the public that any investment in crypto-assets is an individual financial decision made at one's own risk. This stance highlights a cautious approach from the regulatory authorities, even though direct retail trading by individuals isn't banned.
There have been discussions and proposals by some public figures, notably former Member of Parliament Lord Fusitu'a, advocating for the adoption of Bitcoin, potentially even as legal tender, citing economic benefits such as reduced remittance costs. These discussions gained some traction around 2021 and 2022. However, the NRBT has maintained a more reserved position, stating that consideration of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) is still in a very exploratory phase.
While there are no specific crypto regulations, general financial laws may still apply. The Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG), of which Tonga is a member, conducted a mutual evaluation of Tonga's Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CFT) measures, with the report published in 2021 (based on a 2019 visit). While this report assesses the broader AML/CFT framework, the direct application and enforcement of these measures specifically to individual retail crypto trading and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) within Tonga remains an evolving area, particularly in the absence of a dedicated crypto regulatory regime. International standards, such as those from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), call for VASPs to be regulated for AML/CFT purposes, including implementing Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. However, with no licensed crypto exchanges based in Tonga, individuals likely access international platforms, where KYC/AML obligations would be dictated by the platform's jurisdiction and policies.
Some sources indicate that Tongans can and do access international cryptocurrency exchanges to buy, sell, and trade digital assets. There is also mention of cryptocurrencies being used informally for remittances and aid distribution, particularly highlighted during the 2022 volcanic eruption.
In summary, individual Tongans are not prohibited from engaging in cryptocurrency trading. The activity is "Allowed" but falls into the "Unregulated" category because there is no specific legal framework in Tonga governing cryptocurrencies, no licensing system in active use for crypto platforms, and no explicit crypto-specific KYC/AML or tax regulations for individuals. The central bank has issued warnings regarding the risks and clarified that crypto is not legal tender, and any firm offering crypto investment services would need a license, though none have been granted.
Relevant Text Excerpts and Sources:
- UPay Blog (December 8, 2024): "Adoption status: Yes, cryptocurrency is legal in Tonga, but it is not considered legal tender."
- UPay Blog (December 8, 2024): "Tonga currently does not have a comprehensive legal framework for cryptocurrencies. The National Reserve Bank of Tonga has stated that cryptocurrency is not legal tender, and any entity offering crypto-related services must obtain a license, though none have been issued."
- UPay Blog (December 8, 2024): "Tonga currently lacks a well-defined regulatory framework for cryptocurrency use. This creates significant uncertainty for businesses, investors, and individuals interested in adopting digital currencies."
- Carlos Maiz, Best Crypto Exchange in Tonga (May 25, 2025): "Cryptocurrency ownership and trading are legal. No formal crypto regulations currently in place. International exchanges are accessible to Tongans. No Tonga-based licensed crypto exchanges to date."
- Carlos Maiz, Best Crypto Exchange in Tonga (May 25, 2025): "No specific cryptocurrency tax laws yet. Trading gains currently not subject to explicit taxation. Regulatory environment expected to evolve with fintech growth."
- Carlos Maiz, How to Buy Cryptocurrencies in Tonga (January 2, 2025): "Currently, Tonga does not have specific laws or regulations regarding cryptocurrencies. However, the government has expressed interest in blockchain technology and digital currencies."
- RNZ News (June 16, 2021): "Cryptocurrency is not legal tender in Tonga, the country's National Reserve Bank has said."
- RNZ News (June 16, 2021): "The release said anyone who offered investments in crypto-assets such as bitcoin in Tonga would need a licence, and no licence had been issued to any business for this."
- RNZ News (June 16, 2021): "The bank warned the public that any investment in crypto-assets is an individual financial decision made at one's own risk."
- National Reserve Bank of Tonga (June 15, 2021), as cited by various sources: "It has come to the attention of The National Reserve Bank of Tonga that there are social media posts and mainstream media articles relating to Bitcoin potentially becoming a legal tender in the Kingdom of Tonga and/or alluded to the utilisation of the country's foreign exchange reserves to buy/invest in cryptocurrency/crypto-assets such as Bitcoin." The subsequent clarifications confirmed crypto is not legal tender and entities offering it as an investment require a license.
- Wikipedia (Ongoing): "Tonga · Yes. Legal. Tonga plans to make bitcoin legal tender by the end of 2023. This has been planned since late 2021." (Note: While Wikipedia states this, more current and official sources from the NRBT indicate a more cautious approach and no such law has been passed. The "legal" status here likely refers to the absence of a ban, rather than formal legal endorsement or regulation as legal tender.)
Direct URL Links to Sources:
- While a direct link to the NRBT's June 2021 press release was not immediately found in the top search results, its content is widely reported by reputable news outlets and referenced in other secondary sources. The NRBT's official website for press releases is: https://www.reservebank.to/press-releases/ (though the specific 2021 release may need to be searched for within the archive if available).
- RNZ News Article: https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/444861/tongan-reserve-bank-dampens-cryptocurrency-talk
- UPay Blog - Crypto Adoption Around the World: Tonga: https://upay.com/blog/crypto-adoption-around-the-world-tonga/
- Carlos Maiz - Best Crypto Exchange in Tonga (2025 Guide): https://www.carlosmaiz.com/best-crypto-exchange-tonga/
- Carlos Maiz - How to Buy Cryptocurrencies in Tonga: https://www.carlosmaiz.com/guides/how-to-buy-cryptocurrencies-in-tonga/
- Wikipedia - Legality of cryptocurrency by country or territory: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legality_of_cryptocurrency_by_country_or_territory#Polynesia
- Matangi Tonga Online (reporting on NRBT statement): https://matangitonga.to/2021/06/16/cryptocurrency-not-legal-tender-warns-national-reserve-bank-tonga
- Atlantic Council - Tonga CBDC Tracker: https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/cbdctracker/country/tonga/
- Cointelegraph Article on Lord Fusitu'a: https://cointelegraph.com/news/volcanos-bitcoin-and-remittances-a-tongan-lord-plans-for-financial-security
- D.Center - Two Polynesian nations to embrace crypto: https://d-center.org/two-polynesian-nations-to-embrace-crypto/
- FATF - Tonga's measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing (Summary of APG Report): https://www.fatf-gafi.org/en/publications/Mutualevaluations/Tonga-aml-cft-measures.html
- APG - Mutual Evaluation of Tonga - 2021: https://www.apgml.org/mutual-evaluations/documents/default.aspx?s=docName&o=asc (The specific report for Tonga would need to be located on this page, the direct link provided in search was a generic APG link). A more direct path to the report summary is often through the FATF link above. The full report is usually available on the APG site.
- IMF Fintech Note - Virtual Assets and Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (1): https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/fintech-notes/Issues/2021/10/14/Virtual-Assets-and-Anti-Money-Laundering-and-Combating-the-Financing-of-Terrorism-1-463483
- Arctic Intelligence - AML/CTF obligations for Virtual Asset Service Providers: https://arctic-intelligence.com/insights/aml-ctf-obligations-for-virtual-asset-service-providers/
## Retail_Trading_Status in Tonga **Report Date:** 2025-06-26 **Topic:** Retail_Trading_Status **Description:** Assess whether individual citizens and residents in the country are legally permitted to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies. Detail the regulatory environment surrounding this activity (e.g., KYC/AML requirements imposed on platforms, general warnings issued). --- **Identified Status:** Allowed-UnRegulated **Narrative Explanation:** Retail cryptocurrency trading, including the buying, selling, and holding of cryptocurrencies by individual citizens and residents, is currently considered legal in Tonga. However, the nation presently lacks a specific, comprehensive legal or regulatory framework designed explicitly for cryptocurrencies and related activities. This absence of crypto-focused regulation means that while the activity is not prohibited, it operates without specific governance, licensing requirements for individuals, or particular tax rules aimed at cryptocurrency transactions. The National Reserve Bank of Tonga (NRBT), the country's central bank, has clarified that cryptocurrency is not legal tender in Tonga. In June 2021, the NRBT issued a public statement addressing social media and mainstream media discussions about Bitcoin potentially becoming legal tender. The NRBT emphasized that any entity offering investments in crypto-assets like Bitcoin in Tonga would require a license, and importantly, no such licenses had been issued. The bank also warned the public that any investment in crypto-assets is an individual financial decision made at one's own risk. This stance highlights a cautious approach from the regulatory authorities, even though direct retail trading by individuals isn't banned. There have been discussions and proposals by some public figures, notably former Member of Parliament Lord Fusitu'a, advocating for the adoption of Bitcoin, potentially even as legal tender, citing economic benefits such as reduced remittance costs. These discussions gained some traction around 2021 and 2022. However, the NRBT has maintained a more reserved position, stating that consideration of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) is still in a very exploratory phase. While there are no specific crypto regulations, general financial laws may still apply. The Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG), of which Tonga is a member, conducted a mutual evaluation of Tonga's Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CFT) measures, with the report published in 2021 (based on a 2019 visit). While this report assesses the broader AML/CFT framework, the direct application and enforcement of these measures specifically to individual retail crypto trading and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) within Tonga remains an evolving area, particularly in the absence of a dedicated crypto regulatory regime. International standards, such as those from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), call for VASPs to be regulated for AML/CFT purposes, including implementing Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. However, with no licensed crypto exchanges based in Tonga, individuals likely access international platforms, where KYC/AML obligations would be dictated by the platform's jurisdiction and policies. Some sources indicate that Tongans can and do access international cryptocurrency exchanges to buy, sell, and trade digital assets. There is also mention of cryptocurrencies being used informally for remittances and aid distribution, particularly highlighted during the 2022 volcanic eruption. In summary, individual Tongans are not prohibited from engaging in cryptocurrency trading. The activity is "Allowed" but falls into the "Unregulated" category because there is no specific legal framework in Tonga governing cryptocurrencies, no licensing system in active use for crypto platforms, and no explicit crypto-specific KYC/AML or tax regulations for individuals. The central bank has issued warnings regarding the risks and clarified that crypto is not legal tender, and any firm offering crypto investment services would need a license, though none have been granted. **Relevant Text Excerpts and Sources:** * **UPay Blog (December 8, 2024):** "Adoption status: Yes, cryptocurrency is legal in Tonga, but it is not considered legal tender." * **UPay Blog (December 8, 2024):** "Tonga currently does not have a comprehensive legal framework for cryptocurrencies. The National Reserve Bank of Tonga has stated that cryptocurrency is not legal tender, and any entity offering crypto-related services must obtain a license, though none have been issued." * **UPay Blog (December 8, 2024):** "Tonga currently lacks a well-defined regulatory framework for cryptocurrency use. This creates significant uncertainty for businesses, investors, and individuals interested in adopting digital currencies." * **Carlos Maiz, Best Crypto Exchange in Tonga (May 25, 2025):** "Cryptocurrency ownership and trading are legal. No formal crypto regulations currently in place. International exchanges are accessible to Tongans. No Tonga-based licensed crypto exchanges to date." * **Carlos Maiz, Best Crypto Exchange in Tonga (May 25, 2025):** "No specific cryptocurrency tax laws yet. Trading gains currently not subject to explicit taxation. Regulatory environment expected to evolve with fintech growth." * **Carlos Maiz, How to Buy Cryptocurrencies in Tonga (January 2, 2025):** "Currently, Tonga does not have specific laws or regulations regarding cryptocurrencies. However, the government has expressed interest in blockchain technology and digital currencies." * **RNZ News (June 16, 2021):** "Cryptocurrency is not legal tender in Tonga, the country's National Reserve Bank has said." * **RNZ News (June 16, 2021):** "The release said anyone who offered investments in crypto-assets such as bitcoin in Tonga would need a licence, and no licence had been issued to any business for this." * **RNZ News (June 16, 2021):** "The bank warned the public that any investment in crypto-assets is an individual financial decision made at one's own risk." * **National Reserve Bank of Tonga (June 15, 2021), as cited by various sources:** "It has come to the attention of The National Reserve Bank of Tonga that there are social media posts and mainstream media articles relating to Bitcoin potentially becoming a legal tender in the Kingdom of Tonga and/or alluded to the utilisation of the country's foreign exchange reserves to buy/invest in cryptocurrency/crypto-assets such as Bitcoin." The subsequent clarifications confirmed crypto is not legal tender and entities offering it as an investment require a license. * **Wikipedia (Ongoing):** "Tonga · Yes. Legal. Tonga plans to make bitcoin legal tender by the end of 2023. This has been planned since late 2021." (Note: While Wikipedia states this, more current and official sources from the NRBT indicate a more cautious approach and no such law has been passed. The "legal" status here likely refers to the absence of a ban, rather than formal legal endorsement or regulation as legal tender.) **Direct URL Links to Sources:** 1. While a direct link to the NRBT's June 2021 press release was not immediately found in the top search results, its content is widely reported by reputable news outlets and referenced in other secondary sources. The NRBT's official website for press releases is: [https://www.reservebank.to/press-releases/](https://www.reservebank.to/press-releases/) (though the specific 2021 release may need to be searched for within the archive if available). 2. RNZ News Article: [https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/444861/tongan-reserve-bank-dampens-cryptocurrency-talk](https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/444861/tongan-reserve-bank-dampens-cryptocurrency-talk) 3. UPay Blog - Crypto Adoption Around the World: Tonga: [https://upay.com/blog/crypto-adoption-around-the-world-tonga/](https://upay.com/blog/crypto-adoption-around-the-world-tonga/) 4. Carlos Maiz - Best Crypto Exchange in Tonga (2025 Guide): [https://www.carlosmaiz.com/best-crypto-exchange-tonga/](https://www.carlosmaiz.com/best-crypto-exchange-tonga/) 5. Carlos Maiz - How to Buy Cryptocurrencies in Tonga: [https://www.carlosmaiz.com/guides/how-to-buy-cryptocurrencies-in-tonga/](https://www.carlosmaiz.com/guides/how-to-buy-cryptocurrencies-in-tonga/) 6. Wikipedia - Legality of cryptocurrency by country or territory: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legality_of_cryptocurrency_by_country_or_territory#Polynesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legality_of_cryptocurrency_by_country_or_territory#Polynesia) 7. Matangi Tonga Online (reporting on NRBT statement): [https://matangitonga.to/2021/06/16/cryptocurrency-not-legal-tender-warns-national-reserve-bank-tonga](https://matangitonga.to/2021/06/16/cryptocurrency-not-legal-tender-warns-national-reserve-bank-tonga) 8. Atlantic Council - Tonga CBDC Tracker: [https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/cbdctracker/country/tonga/](https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/cbdctracker/country/tonga/) 9. Cointelegraph Article on Lord Fusitu'a: [https://cointelegraph.com/news/volcanos-bitcoin-and-remittances-a-tongan-lord-plans-for-financial-security](https://cointelegraph.com/news/volcanos-bitcoin-and-remittances-a-tongan-lord-plans-for-financial-security) 10. D.Center - Two Polynesian nations to embrace crypto: [https://d-center.org/two-polynesian-nations-to-embrace-crypto/](https://d-center.org/two-polynesian-nations-to-embrace-crypto/) 11. FATF - Tonga's measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing (Summary of APG Report): [https://www.fatf-gafi.org/en/publications/Mutualevaluations/Tonga-aml-cft-measures.html](https://www.fatf-gafi.org/en/publications/Mutualevaluations/Tonga-aml-cft-measures.html) 12. APG - Mutual Evaluation of Tonga - 2021: [https://www.apgml.org/mutual-evaluations/documents/default.aspx?s=docName&o=asc](https://www.apgml.org/mutual-evaluations/documents/default.aspx?s=docName&o=asc) (The specific report for Tonga would need to be located on this page, the direct link provided in search was a generic APG link). A more direct path to the report summary is often through the FATF link above. The full report is usually available on the APG site. 13. IMF Fintech Note - Virtual Assets and Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (1): [https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/fintech-notes/Issues/2021/10/14/Virtual-Assets-and-Anti-Money-Laundering-and-Combating-the-Financing-of-Terrorism-1-463483](https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/fintech-notes/Issues/2021/10/14/Virtual-Assets-and-Anti-Money-Laundering-and-Combating-the-Financing-of-Terrorism-1-463483) 14. Arctic Intelligence - AML/CTF obligations for Virtual Asset Service Providers: [https://arctic-intelligence.com/insights/aml-ctf-obligations-for-virtual-asset-service-providers/](https://arctic-intelligence.com/insights/aml-ctf-obligations-for-virtual-asset-service-providers/)
Web Sources (14)
Sources discovered via web search grounding
Search queries used (5)
- current status of retail cryptocurrency trading in Tonga
- Tonga cryptocurrency laws and regulations
- National Reserve Bank of Tonga statements on cryptocurrency
- Tonga AML/CFT framework for virtual assets
- Is cryptocurrency legal in Tonga for individuals?