Butuo County Bans Cryptocurrency Mining Activities

Butuo County in Sichuan Province declared virtual currency mining illegal in February 2026, following China’s extensive 2021 mining restrictions. This action primarily impacts Bitcoin mining due to Sichuan’s key role as a former hydro-powered mining hub.

Butuo County, located in Sichuan Province, issued a notice on February 4, 2026, prohibiting all forms of virtual currency mining within its jurisdiction, citing the practice as outdated and illegal.

The prohibition of cryptocurrency mining activities in Butuo County underscores China’s ongoing stringent stance on digital assets by reinforcing 2021 regulations and impacting Bitcoin operations in the region.

The notice could potentially reduce Bitcoin’s global hashrate, impacting Bitcoin operations globally.

The local government in Butuo County is at the forefront of enforcing this ban. Bitcoin, the primary cryptocurrency affected, may see decreased production. These actions align with China’s broader efforts to curtail cryptocurrency activities since 2021.

The ban’s immediate impact on Butuo County could lead to increased operational costs but may also redirect mining activities outside the country. Such measures historically impacted Bitcoin’s global hashrate, as seen post-2021 when China’s share dropped significantly.

Financially, this may affect Bitcoin’s market supply resulting in potential volatility. Politically, it signals stricter regulations against digital assets. Socially, it could influence miners to seek more favorable jurisdictions, affecting local employment.

In conclusion, Butuo County’s action reflects China’s sustained regulation on digital currencies and may encourage miners to migrate operations further afield. Historical trends show China’s previous prohibitions significantly affected the Bitcoin market and related industries globally.