Apple Removes Crypto Exchange Apps from Japan’s App Store Amid Regulatory Crackdown
📌 Apple Takes Action Against Unlicensed Crypto Exchanges in Japan
Apple has discreetly removed multiple cryptocurrency exchange apps from Japan’s App Store following regulatory pressure from Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA). The affected exchanges, which were previously warned for operating without proper registration, can no longer be downloaded in the country.
📉 Crypto Exchange Apps Vanish from Japan’s App Store
According to a report from Yahoo Japan, popular crypto exchanges such as:
✅ Bybit
✅ KuCoin
✅ Bitget
✅ MEXC
✅ LBank
have been removed from Japan’s App Store. These platforms had received warnings from the FSA due to their failure to comply with local registration requirements.
However, not all unregistered exchanges have been affected. The report highlights that searches for “crypto assets” or “virtual currency” still return results for Crypto.com and CoinEx, suggesting selective enforcement by Apple and regulators.
🔍 Bybit Responds: “No Impact on Existing Users”
In a February 6 blog post, Bybit confirmed that its app had been removed from Japan’s App Store. However, the exchange reassured its users that those who already have the app installed can continue using it without disruption.
📢 Bybit’s Official Statement:
“We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience or concern this may cause. Please note that this does not affect Bybit’s services in any way. We continue to serve Japanese-speaking customers, and all functions, including deposits, withdrawals, and trading, remain fully operational. All customer accounts and assets are securely protected.”
Despite the removal, Bybit and other affected exchanges continue to offer crypto trading services through their web platforms and other means.
🏛 Japan’s FSA Tightens Crypto Regulations
So far, the FSA has not issued any public statement regarding Apple’s removal of the exchange apps. However, this move aligns with Japan’s broader effort to increase oversight and compliance in the crypto industry.
🔹 December 2023: The FSA announced its plan to update its regulatory guidelines to align with international standards.
🔹 January 2024: The FSA held a roundtable discussion on improving internal audits for financial institutions, attended by the Japan Cryptocurrency Exchange Association (JCEA).
🔹 Ongoing: Authorities are expected to continue tightening compliance measures to ensure exchanges meet legal requirements.
While details of these discussions remain undisclosed, industry experts speculate that stricter rules will soon be implemented and enforced.
❓ What This Means for Crypto Users in Japan
The removal of these crypto exchange apps could signal more restrictions ahead for Japanese crypto traders. As regulatory scrutiny increases, unlicensed platforms may face further limitations, potentially impacting their ability to operate in Japan.
🔹 For users: If you have already downloaded an affected app, you can continue using it as usual. However, keep an eye on official announcements from exchanges and regulators.
🔹 For investors: This crackdown highlights the importance of using registered and compliant exchanges to avoid potential issues.
🚀 Final Thoughts: The Future of Crypto in Japan
Japan has long been one of the strictest markets for cryptocurrency regulation, and this latest move by Apple—likely in coordination with the FSA—reinforces the government’s commitment to ensuring that crypto exchanges follow proper licensing rules.
While some unlicensed exchanges remain unaffected, it’s clear that more enforcement actions could follow in the coming months. Crypto users and investors in Japan should stay informed about regulatory developments to avoid unexpected disruptions.
📢 What’s your take on Japan’s crypto crackdown? Will more exchanges be removed from the App Store? Let us know in the comments! 👇👇👇
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