Ghana Launches 12-Month Crypto Sandbox Under SEC Oversight
Ghana's Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has initiated a 12-month regulatory sandbox for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), marking the country's first structured effort to formalize cryptocurrency trading. Approved on March 10 under the Virtual Asset Service Providers Act (2025), the framework allows 11 selected firms to operate under close supervision while testing real-world crypto services.
The sandbox operates in two phases: after six months, compliant firms may transition to full licensing, while others continue testing. The SEC emphasizes this as a balance between innovation and investor protection, avoiding direct mentions of specific cryptocurrencies or exchanges to maintain regulatory neutrality.
This move positions Ghana among African nations cautiously embracing crypto regulation, contrasting with outright bans seen elsewhere. The sandbox's success could set precedents for neighboring economies weighing similar frameworks.