Business News of Friday, 11 July 2025

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

BoG sets August 15 deadline for VASP registration

Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama is the Governor of the Bank of Ghana Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama is the Governor of the Bank of Ghana

‎The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has given all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) operating in the country until August 15, 2025, to register with the central bank.

‎In a statement issued on July 10, 2025, the BoG said the registration requirement covers entities involved in crypto exchanges, digital wallets, custody and settlement services, and the issuance or sale of digital currencies such as stablecoins and Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs).

‎The directive is part of efforts to build a strong regulatory framework for the fast-growing virtual asset industry and applies to both local and foreign VASPs serving Ghanaian users, whether physically or through digital platforms.

‎The central bank explained that the registration process will inform the development of future regulations aligned with market realities and global standards.

‎"This exercise is aimed at ensuring that the forthcoming legal and regulatory frameworks for VASPs are informed by market developments and aligned with international best practices," it stated.

‎It further noted that registration does not constitute licensing or operational approval, and failure to comply could attract penalties or disqualify firms from future licensing opportunities.

‎The directive follows global trends in regulating virtual assets to fight financial crime, protect consumers, and ensure financial system stability.

‎With cryptocurrency and other digital assets gaining ground in Ghana, the BoG says it is working to close regulatory gaps and support safe, sustainable market development.

‎DR/MA

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