Google has updated its Google Play developer policy, mandating that all cryptocurrency-related apps targeting South African users must comply with national regulations and be registered with the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).
The new policy specifically applies to cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets, which will only remain available in South Africa if developers can demonstrate compliance with local laws, including anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) obligations.
This is coming after the South Africa Reserve Bank announced plans to Publish Crypto Regulatory Framework later this year.
What Developers Must Do
To remain listed on Google Play in South Africa, crypto app developers must:
- Register with the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).
- Implement AML/KYC frameworks to detect suspicious activity and prevent financial crime.
- Comply with oversight from the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), which supervises crypto platforms for consumer protection and market integrity.
- Declare their app under the “Financial features declaration” section in Google Play’s “App Content” dashboard, ensuring accuracy when categorizing as an exchange or wallet.
If targeting South Africa, or any other restricted jurisdiction, developers will now be required to complete additional location-specific compliance forms.
Failure to comply, or operating without proper South African registration, could result in Google Play removing South Africa from the app’s distribution list, effectively blocking local access.
Why South Africa is on Google’s Compliance List
South Africa has rapidly advanced its crypto regulatory framework, making it one of the most mature markets on the continent.
Key developments include:
- The mandatory registration of all crypto asset service providers (CASPs) with the FIC.
- The FSCA’s supervisory role ensures platforms protect users and maintain financial integrity.
- The implementation of the Travel Rule in April 2025 which requires crypto firms to share sender and receiver information in line with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) global standards.
By aligning with these measures, Google Play aims to ensure that apps distributed in South Africa uphold both local legal requirements and international compliance benchmarks.
The Bigger Picture
South Africa’s inclusion in Google’s restricted compliance list highlights the country’s growing influence in shaping crypto regulation. For developers, the message is clear: regulatory shortcuts are no longer tolerated.
As global tech giants like Google tighten policies, crypto companies operating in South Africa must adapt quickly or risk losing access to one of Africa’s largest and most active digital asset markets.
Read also; Top 5 Crypto Exchanges in South Africa (2025)
