Kazakhstan Introduces New Rules for Bitcoin Miners, Tying Power Access to State Crypto Reserve

Kazakhstan is tightening oversight of its cryptocurrency mining industry with a new regulatory framework that rewards qualified mining companies with access to subsidized electricity while requiring them to contribute a portion of their mined digital assets to a state-backed reserve.

The new regulations, approved by the government on July 18 and set to take effect on Aug. 1, 2026, establish a category known as strategic digital mining. The framework is designed to balance the country's energy resources with its ambitions to expand its digital asset ecosystem.

Under the policy, mining companies that qualify for strategic status will be able to purchase electricity through regulated quotas at government-approved rates. In return, they must transfer part of the cryptocurrency they mine to a reserve managed through Astana Hub, Kazakhstan's state-supported technology and innovation center.

While the government has confirmed that participating miners will need to contribute a share of their mining rewards, the official resolution does not specify the exact percentage. Some local media reports have suggested the contribution could be around 10%, though authorities have not formally confirmed that figure.

To qualify for the program, mining operators must satisfy a series of demanding infrastructure and operational requirements. Companies must own a mining data center capable of supporting at least 150 megawatts (MW) of capacity. In addition, every mining machine deployed at the facility must deliver a minimum computing performance of 150 terahashes per second (TH/s).

Beyond hardware standards, applicants must demonstrate they operate with experienced technical personnel and maintain on-site repair facilities capable of servicing mining equipment. Operators are also expected to secure multiple internet service providers to improve network reliability and remain fully compliant with tax obligations and other government requirements.

Approved companies will also be required to sign cooperation agreements with Astana Hub's autonomous cluster fund before they can access electricity under the new system. Power must be purchased from approved electricity producers participating in the framework.

Kazakhstan has remained one of the world's most important Bitcoin mining destinations since China's mining ban prompted operators to relocate across Central Asia. According to the Cambridge Digital Mining Industry Report released in April 2025, the country ranked fifth globally in Bitcoin mining activity.

The latest rules are part of a broader government strategy aimed at building a national digital asset infrastructure while maintaining greater oversight of the industry.

Last year, Kazakhstan introduced the Alem Crypto Fund, a government-backed investment vehicle created to build long-term digital asset reserves. The fund made its first investment through a partnership with Binance Kazakhstan, acquiring BNB as part of its initial portfolio.

The country has also been expanding regulated cryptocurrency services for consumers. Earlier this month, Alatau City Bank and Binance Kazakhstan introduced Crypto Pay, enabling customers to complete purchases with digital assets using QR codes and point-of-sale terminals connected to the bank's payment network.

By combining infrastructure standards, regulated energy access and state-backed crypto reserves, Kazakhstan is positioning itself as a jurisdiction that seeks to support industrial-scale mining while increasing government participation in the country's growing digital asset economy.