The Indonesian crypto industry is once again calling for a revision of crypto-related tax policies after the Financial Services Authority (OJK) announced a 0% regulatory fee for digital financial platforms, including crypto exchanges, throughout 2025.
The decision by OJK to waive fees for a full year has been welcomed by local players, who see it as a positive step towards supporting the country’s growing digital asset ecosystem. However, behind the optimism, industry leaders are highlighting another issue that continues to hinder growth: the heavy tax burden on crypto transactions.
Robby, co-founder of local crypto exchange Reku and also the Chairman of the Indonesian Blockchain Association (ABI), described the move as much-needed relief for the industry.
“We absolutely welcome this decision. Our industry still needs strong support from all sides—government, regulators, and stakeholders,” Robby told Blockchainmedia.id on Thursday, July 11, 2025.
Call to Remove Crypto VAT
Despite the fee relief, Robby emphasized the challenges posed by current tax regulations, especially the imposition of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on crypto transactions, which he hopes will be removed. He also called for an adjustment to the income tax scheme (PPh).
“We believe tax policies need to be reevaluated. The current structure puts local players at a competitive disadvantage compared to global platforms that often enjoy more favorable tax treatment,” he added.
According to Robby, many Indonesian users are turning to international platforms with lower costs and fewer restrictions. This trend, he warned, could undermine the domestic crypto ecosystem if left unaddressed.
He also stressed that the 0% OJK fee should serve as a catalyst for broader regulatory reform, including the harmonization of taxes, levies, and financial oversight—transforming them not just into fiscal tools but into instruments to encourage innovation, attract investment, and strengthen Indonesia’s position in the global digital asset space.
“The crypto sector has massive potential to support financial inclusion, digital transformation, and youth investment growth. But that potential won’t be realized without supportive, forward-thinking regulations,” he said.
Robby also urged the government to establish a closer, more constructive dialogue with industry stakeholders in order to design a more proportional and competitive crypto tax framework.
Tax Reform Must Follow Fee Cuts
In a separate statement, Indodax CEO William Sutanto echoed similar concerns. He called OJK’s zero-fee policy a strong signal of support for the digital economy, but noted that it needs to be followed by tax reform to create meaningful impact.
“This move shows the government's commitment to digital growth, but without tax reform, it won’t be enough,” William said.
He pointed to other countries that are taking more progressive approaches to crypto taxation.
“Thailand, for example, offers a five-year capital gains tax exemption for crypto transactions on licensed platforms. Dubai doesn’t tax individuals on crypto activities at all. And in the U.S., new legislation is being considered to exempt small-scale crypto transactions,” he explained.
Such global benchmarks, he argued, highlight the need for Indonesia to rethink its approach. Currently, tax is calculated based on transaction volume rather than net gains, which disproportionately affects small traders who transact frequently.
“The tax structure should not penalize active users or retail investors. Otherwise, the entire industry risks losing momentum,” William added.
He emphasized that Indonesia needs tax and regulatory harmony that allows the industry to compete globally while still contributing meaningfully to the national economy.
“We hope to see policies that align tax, levies, and regulation to truly enable the growth of crypto in Indonesia,” William said. He reiterated Indodax’s commitment to working closely with regulators to build a safe, secure, and competitive digital asset ecosystem.
Looking Ahead: From Commodities to Financial Instruments
Crypto assets in Indonesia were previously classified as commodities, subjecting them to VAT. However, with the evolving nature of digital assets and their increasing use as financial instruments, there is hope among stakeholders that this classification will be updated, and VAT removed accordingly.
In addition, adjustments to income tax (PPh) rates are seen as necessary to foster a more investor-friendly environment and promote the long-term development of the domestic crypto market.
As a background, Robby noted that prior to this relaxation, OJK had imposed a fee of 0.045%, with a minimum annual payment of IDR 10 million, split into four terms. This applied to all entities under OJK supervision, including cooperatives, financial institutions, and capital market participants.
Starting in 2026, a 50% discounted rate will apply until 2028, after which the full rate will be reinstated in 2029.
Comments
Post a Comment