Tajikistan is preparing to crack down on illegal cryptocurrency mining. The country’s parliament has approved major amendments to the criminal code, introducing new penalties for mining operations that rely on stolen electricity. The new Article 253(2) aims to address soaring energy losses, grid failures, and financial damages linked to illegal mining activities.

Fines and prison time. Up to eight years in severe cases

Using stolen electricity for cryptocurrency mining can newly result in fines ranging from USD 1,650 to 8,250, or imprisonment for two to five years. If miners cause “large-scale damage,” courts may impose sentences of up to eight years.

The amendments were proposed by Prosecutor General Khabibullo Vokhidzoda, who noted that electricity theft by miners has already caused regional blackouts in several cities. He added that illegal mining is often tied to other crimes, including money laundering and interference with state systems.

Authorities report long-term financial losses caused by illegal operations. Vokhidzoda previously estimated damage at 32 million somoni (about USD 3.52 million), which resulted in several criminal cases.

Energy crisis increases pressure for regulation

Tajikistan generates around 95% of its electricity from hydropower, making winter months especially challenging due to low water levels. The situation worsened after China banned cryptocurrency mining in 2021, prompting thousands of miners – including operators from Russia – to relocate to Central Asia in search of cheaper power and relaxed regulation.

In August 2025 alone, authorities investigated 190 criminal cases related to illegal electricity use. According to The Diplomat, 3,988 individuals were charged, with total damages exceeding USD 4.26 million.

MP Shukhrat Ganizoda warned that illegal mining operations connect thousands of powerful ASIC machines to the grid while bypassing metering. “They try to use electricity without meters or through other unlawful methods,” he said.

Law aims to curb tax evasion as well

Ganizoda added that the legislation also targets tax evasion and unauthorized encryption activities that hinder oversight of financial flows. The revised criminal code seeks to limit attempts to bypass commodity-tracking systems.

The amendments will take effect once signed by President Emomali Rahmon. Tajikistan will formally classify illegal cryptocurrency mining as a serious crime – sending a clear signal that the era of the “wild west” in the region is coming to an end.

Sources:

https://asiaplustj.info/ru/news/tajikistan/laworder/20251209/v-tadzhikistane-vveli-shtraf-za-proizvodstvo-kriptovalyuti-s-ispolzovaniem-vorovannogo-elektrichestva

https://thediplomat.com/2025/08/tajikistan-blames-illegal-cryptocurrency-mining-for-some-of-its-energy-woes/

https://energynews.pro/en/tajikistan-relies-on-hydropower-to-overcome-energy-shortages/