Is it legal to use USDT currency in China?

Due to government restrictions, holding, transacting, or exchanging USDT within China is considered illegal and carries potential penalties such as fines and imprisonment.

Feb 02, 2025 at 09:07 pm

Key Points:

• Legal status of USDT in China
• Restrictions and regulations on USDT transactions
• Consequences of violating regulations
• Potential risks and considerations
• FAQs on USDT usage in China

Is it Legal to Use USDT Currency in China?

The legal status of Tether (USDT) in China has undergone significant changes over the past several years. While USDT was once widely used in the cryptocurrency market, the Chinese government has cracked down on its circulation and usage, citing concerns about financial stability and money laundering.

Restrictions and Regulations on USDT Transactions

In September 2021, the People's Bank of China (PBOC) issued a notice prohibiting all cryptocurrency transactions within the country. This included buying, selling, and exchanging USDT and other cryptocurrencies. Individuals and companies are not permitted to facilitate or participate in any form of cryptocurrency-related activity.

Consequences of Violating Regulations

Violating the PBOC's ban on cryptocurrency transactions can result in severe penalties. Individuals who engage in unauthorized USDT or cryptocurrency trading may face fines, asset seizures, and imprisonment. Businesses that facilitate such activities may also be subject to legal action and revocation of their operating licenses.

Potential Risks and Considerations

Despite the restrictions, USDT remains in circulation within the Chinese cryptocurrency ecosystem. However, it is important to consider the following risks and factors:

• Counterfeit USDT: Counterfeit or fake USDT can be difficult to detect and may result in financial losses.
• Transaction Delays: USDT transactions may be delayed or blocked by Chinese authorities.
• Limited Acceptance: Not all platforms or exchanges in China accept USDT due to regulatory concerns.
• Freezing of Accounts: Accounts associated with USDT transactions may be subject to freezing or closure by Chinese regulators.

FAQs on USDT Usage in China

• Is it illegal to hold USDT in China? Yes, it is illegal to hold or transact USDT under current regulations.
• Can I exchange USDT for RMB within China? No, it is forbidden to exchange USDT for RMB or any other fiat currency in China.
• What are the penalties for using USDT? Penalties for using USDT may include fines, asset seizures, and imprisonment.
• Can I still use my VPN to access decentralized exchanges (DEXs)? While some individuals may use VPNs to bypass geographical restrictions, accessing DEXs may still be risky and subject to legal consequences.