Kazakhstan’s AIFC Regulator Turns to Apple and Google to Enforce Coinbase, HTX Injunctions

Introduction

Kazakhstan’s Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) regulator, the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA), is taking an unprecedented step to curb unlicensed crypto services. After winning injunctions against six platforms—including Coinbase and HTX—the regulator will now serve the orders to Apple and Google, seeking to block the distribution of related mobile apps in the AIFC jurisdiction.

Why the injunctions matter

The AIFC Court issued default judgments against the operators of BingX, Bitcoin.com, HTX, BitMart, Coinbase and WEEX for offering digital‑asset services without proper authorization. The orders prohibit these firms from marketing, providing, or distributing mobile applications that facilitate crypto activities to users located within the AIFC. By targeting the app‑store ecosystems, AFSA aims to cut off a primary access point for Kazakh users, reinforcing the broader regulatory push that now rests with the National Bank of Kazakhstan for licensing across the country.

Apple and Google’s role

Although the court declined to issue a separate order directly binding Apple and Google, AFSA plans to serve the injunctions to the operators of the Apple App Store and Google Play. Once served, the tech giants will be legally obligated to enforce the restrictions unless they successfully challenge the orders. The court’s reasoning emphasized dialogue with the app‑store providers as the sensible first step, leaving the possibility for the companies to seek variations or set‑aside the injunctions after acknowledging service.

Implications for the crypto ecosystem

• Enforcement reach – By extending the injunctions to app‑store platforms, AFSA leverages a powerful distribution channel, potentially limiting the ability of unlicensed services to reach Kazakh users.
• Regulatory clarity – The move underscores Kazakhstan’s shift toward a more centralized licensing regime under the National Bank, signaling that future compliance will be evaluated at the national level rather than the AIFC alone.
• Industry response – Several platforms have already restricted access in Kazakhstan, and a number are reportedly preparing to apply for AFSA licenses. The pressure on unlicensed operators is likely to increase as the regulator demonstrates willingness to pursue indirect enforcement routes.

Practical takeaways

For crypto firms eyeing the Kazakh market, securing a license from the National Bank is now essential. Existing app‑store listings should be reviewed for compliance, and legal teams should be prepared to respond promptly if served with similar injunctions. Meanwhile, Apple and Google users in Kazakhstan may notice the disappearance of certain crypto apps from their stores, reflecting the regulator’s expanding enforcement toolkit.

--- This article was drafted using AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy by the Unchained editorial team.