Russia’s Bitcoin mining demand triples amid regulatory shifts and price rally

Russia has seen a sharp rise in Bitcoin mining activity as citizens and businesses turn to crypto mining for additional income streams, local media outlet Prime reported.

According to the report, the demand for industrial Bitcoin mining equipment in Russia has tripled compared to the same quarter in 2023.

This surge coincides with a lucrative period for Bitcoin miners, fueled by the top crypto’s significant price rally in 2024. Over the past year, institutional miners have reported substantial growth in their Bitcoin reserves, further emphasizing the sector’s profitability.

What is driving Russia’s Bitcoin mining industry?

Market observers have linked the significant surge to Russia’s regulatory adjustments, which have provided clarity for miners and facilitated the industry’s expansion while maintaining oversight.

Last year, the Russian government legalized crypto mining under specific guidelines. These guidelines allow individuals to mine without registration if their energy usage remains below 6,000 kWh monthly. Those exceeding this limit must register as entrepreneurs and comply with additional rules.

Moreover, the tax reforms have further shaped the industry. Russia’s updated tax code exempts crypto transactions from value-added tax but imposes a 15% tax on mined assets.

This tax is calculated based on the market value of mined cryptocurrencies at the time of receipt, and miners are allowed to deduct operational costs to determine their taxable income.

Mining facilities must also report their users’ activities regularly to ensure compliance.

Furthermore, Russia’s general posture towards the top digital asset has significantly improved, with the country’s Finance Minister Anton Siluanov revealing that Russian companies are using BTC for international transactions. 

However, Russia is taking a measured approach to the sector despite its unprecedented growth. The country recently imposed a mining ban that is effective until 2031 in 10 energy-strapped regions.

The restriction prohibits crypto mining and participation in mining pools within these areas, reflecting the government’s effort to balance energy consumption with economic priorities.