From seizure to sale: Beijing taps Hong Kong to liquidate crypto

In a move that underscores the strategic value of Hong Kong’s regulatory autonomy, Beijing has established its first formal process for liquidating confiscated cryptocurrencies—tapping into Hong Kong’s licensed exchanges to offload digital assets seized in criminal cases.

The arrangement highlights the stark policy divide between mainland China’s hardline anti-crypto stance and Hong Kong’s ambitions as a digital asset hub. It also offers a practical solution for Chinese authorities to convert seized crypto into fiat currency without breaching domestic restrictions.

According to a local report from Tech In Asia, Beijing’s Public Security Bureau established a disposal framework that involves collaboration with the China Beijing Equity Exchange to coordinate the sale of virtual assets seized in criminal cases.

Third-party agencies will carry out transactions on licensed platforms, and proceeds will be converted to yuan and transferred to designated government accounts.

This marks the first formal process established by mainland Chinese authorities for disposing of seized crypto.

China’s crypto catch finds a Hong Kong exit

The decision to use Hong Kong’s regulated cryptocurrency infrastructure shows a major, stark regulatory divide between mainland China and the Special Administrative Region.

While Beijing maintains one of the world’s most restrictive cryptocurrency policies, Hong Kong has actively cultivated its position as a regional digital asset hub.

Hong Kong’s regulatory framework allows licensed exchanges to serve institutional and qualified retail investors. This creates an ideal conduit for Chinese authorities seeking to liquidate seized assets and also maintain compliance with mainland restrictions.

The arrangement shows Hong Kong’s strategic value as a bridge between China’s strict domestic policies and the global cryptocurrency ecosystem. Licensed exchanges in the territory can process large-scale transactions and also ensures regulatory compliance and proper documentation.

Chinese law enforcement agencies have accumulated substantial cryptocurrency holdings through criminal investigations and asset seizures. Official estimates suggest authorities control approximately 194,000 Bitcoin (BTC) and 833,000 Ethereum (ETH).

Previously, Chinese authorities lacked established mechanisms for converting seized cryptocurrencies into traditional currency.

The timing coincides with global trends in government cryptocurrency holdings, as law enforcement agencies worldwide are puzzled on how to manage the substantial digital asset seizures.

The United States government currently holds approximately 200,000 Bitcoin worth around $16 billion, while the United Kingdom possesses over 61,000 Bitcoin from fraud investigations.

Beijing’s decision to utilize Hong Kong’s cryptocurrency infrastructure shows the practical flexibility within China’s “One Country, Two Systems” framework. The arrangement allows mainland authorities to access regulated cryptocurrency markets without compromising domestic policy positions.

Chinese authorities maintain that the liquidation process aligns with existing anti-cryptocurrency policies by removing seized digital assets from circulation rather than facilitating new trading activities.

The framework establishes clear procedures for converting volatile digital assets into stable fiat currency and reduces storage risks and administrative burdens associated with long-term cryptocurrency custody.