Hong Kong has initiated a public consultation to adopt the OECD’s Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) and an amended Common Reporting Standard (CRS). This move is aimed at starting the automatic, cross-border exchange of crypto-related tax information by 2028.
- Key Timeline: Legislative amendments are anticipated in 2026.
- Mechanism: The new framework will expand the existing CRS infrastructure (in place since 2018) to cover digital asset transactions.
- Compliance: Authorities plan to mandate registration for financial institutions, introduce enhanced penalties, and strengthen enforcement to counter tax evasion via crypto.
- Reciprocity: The system will operate reciprocally with other jurisdictions that meet necessary data security standards.
- Context: This responds to an OECD peer review of Hong Kong’s tax transparency compliance and aligns with its “Fintech 2030” strategy, which promotes digital-asset innovation.
- Market Impact: The adoption is occurring as Hong Kong pushes for greater crypto liquidity (with licensed exchanges connecting to global order books) and the potential listing of major exchanges like HashKey Holdings.
- Regional Influence: Recent crypto restrictions in Mainland China, which have impacted Hong Kong-listed firms, are influencing local policy and enforcement approaches.
Public feedback on the proposal is open until February 6, 2026.
Explore the guides: MENA Regulation Tracker →Crypto regulation guide →
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