In a groundbreaking legislative move, Japanese token issuers can now breathe easy with an exemption from paying corporate taxes on unrealized cryptocurrency gains. This stipulation comes into effect following a law revision by the National Tax Agency on June 20. This monumental shift comes barely half a year after the Japanese government greenlit a proposal to eradicate the obligation for cryptocurrency firms to pay taxes on theoretical gains from tokens they had issued and retained.

Towards a Revamped Cryptocurrency Tax Landscape in Japan

The overhaul of Japan’s cryptocurrency tax regulations has been a hot topic of discussion among lawmakers since August last. It is a crucial part of a broader tax reform agenda slated for 2023. However, the definitive seal of approval came only this week from the tax authorities. The novel regulations absolve Japanese firms issuing tokens from the burden of a fixed 30% corporate tax rate on their holdings. Before this legislation, even unrealized gains fell under the tax net.

The ruling Liberal Democratic Party foresees this move to significantly ease the pathway for myriad companies keen on conducting businesses involving issuing tokens. This decisive step in favour of companies in the crypto arena is set to invigorate their operations, providing them with a more competitive edge.

Japan’s Crypto Industry: Undergoing a Sea of Changes

Japan’s cryptocurrency industry has been the epicenter of transformative changes recently. Since June 1, the country has implemented more rigorous Anti-Money Laundering (AML) measures to scrutinize cryptocurrency transactions. These steps align Japan’s legal framework with international cryptocurrency norms. The AML legislation was revised in December, following a review by the Financial Action Task Force that revealed its inadequacies.

Last June saw the passing of legislation in Japan that barred non-banking institutions from issuing stablecoins. This rule, which took effect just a few weeks ago, dictates that the issuance of stablecoins within the nation is confined to licensed banks, officially registered money transfer agents, and trust companies.

A Pioneering Approach to Cryptocurrency

Japan has emerged as a global leader in cryptocurrency, being among the first countries to recognize crypto as a legitimate private asset. Its regulations on cryptocurrency are widely recognized as some of the most stringent globally.

Following cyber attacks on Mt. Gox and Coincheck, Japan’s financial watchdog introduced stringent rules for cryptocurrency exchanges. These local regulations are credited with aiding the swift return of assets to FTX users in Japan, post the exchange’s worldwide collapse. This starkly contrasts the plight of users in other countries who are left waiting indefinitely for their refunds due to the absence of a clear deadline.

None of the information on this website is investment or financial advice and does not necessarily reflect the views of CryptoMode or the author. CryptoMode is not responsible for any financial losses sustained by acting on information provided on this website by its authors or clients. Always conduct your research before making financial commitments, especially with third-party reviews, presales, and other opportunities.