Argentina Accepts Contract Payments in Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrencies

Diana Mondino, Argentina’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, has announced the legalization of certain types of currencies in contracts, with Bitcoin being one of the accepted forms of payment, as per the government decree. In a post on December 21 on the X platform, Mondino indicated that the decree seems aimed at economic reform and eliminating restrictions, allowing the use of BTC and other cryptocurrencies domestically under specific conditions.

The decree, titled “Basis for the Revitalization of Argentina’s Economy,” passed on December 20, doesn’t explicitly mention cryptocurrencies but includes provisions enabling debtors to choose non-legally recognized currencies in Argentina for payment. Mondino stated, “We affirm and confirm that in Argentina, contracts can be settled with Bitcoin and any other cryptocurrency.”

President Javier Milei appointed Mondino as the Minister of Foreign Affairs following his electoral victory over the then Finance Minister Sergio Massa. Many in the community see Milei’s win as a positive signal for the adoption of cryptocurrencies in Argentina.

Milei assumed office amidst rising inflation across the country. The economic decree followed his first national address, outlining measures to address Argentina’s economic concerns.

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The President previously referred to Bitcoin as a movement aimed at returning money to its original creators, the private sector. Since taking office, he has not publicly commented on digital assets.