Cryptocurrency Regulation in Guinea Prior to 2024

As of 2023, the legislative landscape for cryptocurrencies in Guinea was characterized by a notable absence of specific regulations or legal frameworks governing the use of digital currencies. This lack of clear guidelines placed cryptocurrencies in a legal gray area within the country.

Absence of Official Stance or Ban

The government of Guinea had neither officially banned nor endorsed the use of cryptocurrency. This non-committal stance left the legality of cryptocurrencies in Guinea ambiguous. Without formal regulations, the activities involving cryptocurrencies were not explicitly legal, prompting individuals and businesses to exercise caution in their dealings with digital currencies​​.

No Specific Laws or Penalties

In Guinea, there were no specific laws or penalties related to the use or trade of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, and others. However, general financial laws applicable to financial transactions, tax, and anti-money laundering were relevant and could potentially apply to cryptocurrency activities. Violations of these general laws could result in fines or imprisonment​​.

Popular Cryptocurrencies and Trading

Popular cryptocurrencies in Guinea included Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Tether, Cardano, USDT, XRP, and Monero, primarily due to their global acceptance and market stability. Trading these cryptocurrencies was not illegal, but it was advised to be done with caution due to risks associated with unregulated financial activities​​​​.

Cryptocurrency Gambling

With no specific laws governing cryptocurrency in Guinea, the legality of cryptocurrency gambling remained unclear. However, general gambling laws might still apply, and it was recommended to seek legal advice before engaging in such activities​​.

Official Resources and Monitoring

For up-to-date information on financial regulations, individuals were directed to consult the official website of the Central Bank of Guinea. This implied that the Central Bank might be monitoring developments in the cryptocurrency sector, even in the absence of specific laws or regulations​​.

In summary, prior to 2024, Guinea’s approach to cryptocurrency regulation was marked by a significant regulatory vacuum. The absence of specific laws or guidelines created an environment of uncertainty, where the legal status of cryptocurrencies remained unclear. Individuals and businesses dealing in cryptocurrencies were advised to remain cautious and informed about the potential applicability of general financial laws to their crypto-related activities.