Uruguay Charts a Bold Course for Crypto in 2025
Uruguay has stepped into 2025 with clear crypto regulations, making it one of the most forward-looking countries in Latin America when it comes to digital asset oversight. The implementation of Law 20,345 in late 2024 officially recognized virtual assets and handed regulatory control to the Central Bank of Uruguay (BCU)—a move that has created a wave of global interest from startups and fintech firms.
The law defines virtual assets as electronic representations of value that can be transferred through blockchain networks. Any company offering crypto services must now register with the BCU and meet strict compliance and reporting standards, ensuring transparency and trust within the system.
Montevideo Becomes a Hub for Crypto Dialogue
Uruguay’s ambitions were on full display during the seventh Blockchain Summit Global held in Montevideo in July 2025. The event brought together over 60 industry experts, including figures like Patricia Tudisco from the BCU, who discussed the ongoing evolution of the regulatory framework. Many panelists praised the legislation as a “big step forward” for crypto in the region.
The regulatory focus is threefold: consumer protection, anti-money laundering (AML), and alignment with international rules. These principles are already drawing crypto companies from around the globe, attracted by Uruguay’s stability, innovation, and legal clarity.
To maintain momentum, the BCU is now drafting secondary regulations that will expand the framework further. These new guidelines are expected to solidify the nation’s regulatory leadership and give even more confidence to incoming market players.
Stablecoins and AI Steal the Spotlight
Excitement also centered around stablecoins, as the BCU signaled a progressive stance by describing fiat-pegged tokens as “electronic money.” This interpretation allows for controlled licensing of stablecoin issuers, bringing Uruguay in line with international best practices.
Outside of crypto, the summit also highlighted Uruguay’s ambitions in artificial intelligence. Local firms like Zapia and Eidos presented AI-driven export services, underlining the country’s technical capacity to compete on a global scale. Experts emphasized the need for investments in AI infrastructure and education to sustain this momentum.
A key development was the launch of the Blockchain Chamber, aimed at connecting startups, regulators, and tech innovators to build a decentralized and sustainable blockchain ecosystem.
Global Trust Fueled by Legal Clarity
Under the new regulations, VASPs (Virtual Asset Service Providers) are now subject to BCU registration, and must implement robust AML protocols and consumer protection measures. The legislation also introduces clear tax transparency obligations in line with OECD standards, helping Uruguay gain legitimacy as a credible crypto jurisdiction.
The law categorizes digital assets into various types: financial, utility, and stablecoins, offering precise guidance for both regulators and companies. Crucially, foreign companies aren’t required to register unless they offer services to local users, ensuring flexibility for innovation while protecting the local market.
A compliance advisor praised the government’s approach, stating:
Meanwhile, a fintech executive remarked:
