The Legislative Landscape for Cryptocurrencies in Tunisia Prior to 2024

Overview

The legislative environment for cryptocurrencies in Tunisia prior to 2024 was characterized by a lack of clear regulation, placing digital currencies in a legal grey area.

Absence of Specific Cryptocurrency Regulations

As of the end of 2022, Tunisia had not established any specific laws or regulations pertaining to the use, trading, or mining of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Tether, Cardano, USDT, XRP, and Monero. This absence of regulation meant that while the use of cryptocurrencies was not explicitly illegal, it was also not officially recognized by the Tunisian government, leading to uncertainty about the legal status of these digital assets​​.

Cryptocurrency Trading and Gambling

Given the lack of regulation, cryptocurrency trading in Tunisia was not illegal, but it was unregulated. Traders were operating without government oversight, making it challenging for them to safeguard their rights. Similarly, cryptocurrency gambling fell into the same unregulated category, with no specific laws or regulations governing it, making it neither explicitly legal nor illegal​​​​.

Government’s Stance and Interest in Blockchain

The Tunisian government, particularly through entities like the Tunisian Internet Agency (ATI), showed an interest in blockchain technology, the underlying technology behind cryptocurrencies. However, the Central Bank of Tunisia had not issued any guidelines or regulations regarding the use of cryptocurrencies. Until formal laws were established, cryptocurrency users in Tunisia had to rely on international resources and platforms for information and support​​.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tunisia’s approach to cryptocurrency regulation prior to 2024 was one of caution and non-commitment. The absence of specific regulations left the use and trading of cryptocurrencies in a legal grey area, with both users and traders operating at their own risk. The interest shown by the government in blockchain technology suggested a potential for future regulatory developments, but as of the end of 2022, no concrete steps had been taken to establish a clear legal framework for digital currencies in Tunisia.