China's Regulatory Crackdown on Cryptocurrency Transactions with Stablecoins

By Patricia Miller

Oct 29, 2025

2 min read

China's court sentenced five for $166 million in disguised foreign exchange using stablecoins, intensifying regulatory focus on digital assets.

#What Recent Court Rulings Mean for Cryptocurrency Transactions in China

Recent rulings from a Beijing court have underscored the Chinese government's firm stance against unauthorized currency transfers, particularly involving digital assets. A group of five individuals received sentences for orchestrating a scheme that facilitated $166 million in disguised foreign exchange transactions. They employed USDT, a widely used stablecoin, to circumvent China's stringent foreign exchange controls, effectively moving funds across borders without adhering to existing regulations.

The defendants took advantage of USDT’s capacity to facilitate cross-border transfers, which allowed them to bypass the limitations on Renminbi conversions and international fund flows. This case exemplifies the heightened scrutiny that financial authorities in China are placing on cryptocurrency transactions.

#How is China Reinforcing Foreign Exchange Regulations?

In recent months, China's procuratorate has shared insights into various cases connected to virtual currencies used for unauthorized offshore transactions. This points to a significant enforcement drive against covert financial operations that breach the country's foreign exchange laws. Such actions reflect a broader pattern where authorities are intensifying their vigilance, particularly around stablecoins like USDT.

#What Should Investors Consider About Stablecoins?

Investors must be aware that the increasing regulatory scrutiny surrounding stablecoins has profound implications. Recent court decisions consistently advocate for stringent restrictions on the use of stablecoins for payment and currency-like functionalities. This trend illustrates the ongoing tight management of both traditional financial mechanisms and emerging digital asset-derived cross-border dealings. As the landscape evolves, understanding these regulatory developments becomes essential for anyone considering investment in cryptocurrency within regions like China.

With this growing regulatory pressure, potential investors should reassess their strategies and remain informed about the legal frameworks influencing digital currency transactions.

Important Notice And Disclaimer

This article does not provide any financial advice and is not a recommendation to deal in any securities or product. Investments may fall in value and an investor may lose some or all of their investment. Past performance is not an indicator of future performance.