Global cryptocurrency exchange Binance has announced it will disable all trading involving the Ethiopian Birr (ETB) starting May 15, 2026, marking a significant development for crypto users in Ethiopia.
In a statement shared by Binance Africa, the company said the decision is part of efforts to align with evolving regulatory requirements in the country. “We’re working closely with regulators to support Ethiopia’s goals and hope to resume trading soon,” the platform noted, assuring users that their funds remain secure and that access to other services will not be affected.
The move comes roughly two months after the National Bank of Ethiopia issued a public notice declaring Birr-denominated peer-to-peer (P2P) cryptocurrency transactions illegal unless explicitly authorized. The central bank cited concerns over fraud risks, extreme price volatility, and the absence of adequate consumer protection mechanisms.
Despite the current restrictions, the National Bank indicated it is working toward establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework that could eventually allow for safer and more structured participation in digital asset markets. Until such a framework is introduced, however, Birr-based crypto transactions remain prohibited.
The suspension also reflects broader concerns among Ethiopian authorities regarding illicit financial flows linked to digital platforms. Security agencies have reportedly raised alarms about the use of cryptocurrency channels in contraband trade and informal cross-border transactions, prompting increased scrutiny of global exchanges operating in the country.
Binance advised users engaged in ETB-related trades to close open P2P orders and adjust their liquidity positions ahead of the mid-May deadline to avoid disruptions.
The development mirrors a wider regional trend of tightening oversight on crypto platforms. In neighboring Kenya, authorities recently froze multiple Binance accounts in April 2026 as part of ongoing investigations, underscoring growing regulatory intervention across African markets.
As Ethiopia navigates the balance between innovation and financial stability, the temporary suspension signals a pivotal moment in shaping the country’s future digital asset landscape.
