Japan Plans 20% Crypto Tax, Adopts XRP for Cross-Border Payments

Japan is poised for significant revisions to its cryptocurrency regulations, aiming to enhance its global competitiveness in the evolving crypto market. Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato has announced plans to finalize a more favorable crypto tax rate by the end of June 2025. This development is part of a broader strategy to attract innovation and improve the economic outlook.

There has been a longstanding call for reforms in Japan’s crypto asset tax system. In December, the Liberal Democratic Party’s Political Advisory Committee endorsed a proposal to leverage crypto assets for economic growth.

This milestone occurred just before the 2025 tax reform outline was unveiled. The proposal suggests a distinct tax framework for cryptocurrencies, separating profits and losses from traditional assets. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has stressed that the evolution of crypto assets and Web3 technologies is crucial for Japan’s economic future. He emphasized the need for user protection and Web3 development, highlighting cryptocurrency as a potential solution for Japan's social and economic challenges.

Crypto in Japan is currently taxed as miscellaneous income, with rates potentially reaching 55% depending on individual income. A proposal to reduce this rate to 20% was put forward by the Democratic Party last October.

Akihisa Shiozaki, head of Web3 at the Liberal Democratic Party, noted Japan’s restrictive tax system undermines its competitiveness, referencing international moves like the U.S. plans for a Bitcoin reserve. Discussions are ongoing about redefining crypto assets legally, which are presently viewed as payment means rather than investment vehicles. Various stakeholders are providing feedback to regulators on this matter.

In parallel with tax reforms, Japan's crypto landscape is hitting new milestones. From February, the nation’s banks will integrate XRP cryptocurrency for international transactions. This strategic move, confirmed by Yoshitaka Kitao, CEO of SBI Holdings, is expected to improve cross-border payment efficiency and currency conversion. As Japan's banking sector adopts XRP, the digital currency could gain a significant role in the global financial ecosystem, potentially boosting its market value.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Always conduct your own research or consult a professional when dealing with cryptocurrency assets.