Is Monero legal in Hong Kong?
Legal to own; licensed-exchange availability of XMR unverified.
| Owning XMR | Legal |
|---|---|
| Local exchanges | Limited |
| National rule | No specific rule on privacy coins |
| Regulator | Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) |
| Last reviewed | 25 October 2026 |
The legal situation in Hong Kong
Since June 2023 Hong Kong has required virtual asset trading platforms to be licensed by the SFC, with token due-diligence rules for retail listings. We found no explicit SFC rule naming privacy coins, and no evidence that licensed platforms list XMR. Owning XMR is legal.
Key facts
- 2023-06-01: The SFC VATP licensing regime took effect, allowing retail trading subject to token admission criteria.
- Licensed platforms must perform token due diligence before admitting assets for retail trading.
- Retail trading is limited to 'eligible large-cap' tokens, which must be included in at least two acceptable indices.
- Tax: Hong Kong levies no capital gains tax; under IRD guidance (DIPN 39), profits from a crypto business carried on in Hong Kong are subject to profits tax.
What this means for you
Owning Monero and keeping it in your own wallet is legal as far as we could find. Pick a wallet from our best Monero wallets list, read how to buy Monero, and keep records for tax.
Sources
aplus.hkicpa.org.hk, cm.twobirds.com, davispolk.com.
Sources are listed by publisher so you can look them up yourself; we do not link out.
General information, not legal or tax advice. Check the regulator's own website before acting.
Frequently asked questions
Is Monero legal in Hong Kong?
Legal to own; licensed-exchange availability of XMR unverified.
Can I buy Monero on a local exchange in Hong Kong?
Only in limited ways: few or no licensed local exchanges list XMR.