Turkish regulators block PancakeSwap in a sweeping move to tighten control over the digital asset landscape.
The Capital Markets Board (SPK) took decisive action by blacklisting PancakeSwap and 45 other crypto-related websites. This reflects an intensifying effort to curb unauthorized services in Turkey’s fast-growing crypto scene.
PancakeSwap, a leading decentralized exchange (DEX), reported over $325 billion in trading volume just last month. It now finds itself inaccessible to Turkish residents due to regulatory enforcement. The SPK invoked Turkey’s Capital Markets Law, accusing the sites of offering crypto services without proper licensing.
This crackdown is part of broader reforms that empower the SPK to oversee digital asset platforms targeting Turkish users. Since March, any platform providing crypto services to residents must meet strict compliance and transparency requirements. Authorities are especially focused on protecting consumers and controlling illicit transactions in the sector.
Turkey’s crypto market faces new legal boundaries
Turkish regulators block PancakeSwap as part of the country’s shifting stance on crypto regulation. While crypto payments have been banned for purchases since 2021, Turkish citizens can still hold and trade digital assets. However, service providers must now be registered and meet regulatory standards to operate legally.
The SPK’s latest bulletin also cited action against lesser-known platforms like Cryptoradar and several investment and trading hubs. These platforms allegedly offered financial instruments or services that fall under capital markets oversight, triggering legal intervention.
The decision comes amid rising interest in cryptocurrencies among Turkish citizens, driven by inflation and economic uncertainty. This growing demand has prompted the government to create a legal framework for managing risk while encouraging responsible use.
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Turkish regulators block PancakeSwap amid global trend of restrictions
Globally, other countries are taking similar steps. Kazakhstan, Venezuela, and Russia have each restricted access to crypto platforms over similar concerns. Even the Philippines has flagged unregistered exchanges as potential threats to consumer safety.
Turkey’s policy shift mirrors a global push toward greater scrutiny of decentralized finance (DeFi) and digital asset trading. The mandate for user identification on transactions over $425 is one of several new measures to monitor activity more closely.
These changes signal Turkey’s commitment to developing a controlled yet active crypto environment. As regulators sharpen their tools, both platforms and users must adapt or risk exclusion from the market.