Global cryptocurrency exchange giant Binance has announced that it will remove the Ethiopian Birr (ETB) from its Peer-to-Peer (P2P) trading platform starting May 15, 2026. The decision comes as a direct response to the evolving regulatory landscape in Ethiopia, as the country tightens its oversight of digital asset transactions and foreign exchange flows.
Under the new directive, all existing trade advertisements involving the Birr will be automatically removed from the platform by the deadline. Additionally, users will be prohibited from posting new buy or sell advertisements featuring the local currency. Binance clarified that any ongoing trade disputes involving ETB will be monitored and resolved by their support team to ensure a fair exit for affected parties.
The move marks a significant shift for Ethiopia’s growing community of crypto enthusiasts who have relied on P2P markets to hedge against inflation. Despite the delisting, Binance reassured its customers that their funds remain secure. The exchange emphasized that user accounts will not be closed or restricted; only the specific functionality to trade using the Ethiopian Birr is being suspended at this time.
In a statement sent to its users via email, Binance expressed its commitment to complying with local laws while supporting the nation’s broader digital goals. The company noted it is working closely with Ethiopian authorities to align with the 2030 Finance Innovation Vision, a strategic roadmap aimed at modernizing the country’s financial sector through regulated technology.
While the immediate impact limits direct crypto-to-fiat on-ramps for Ethiopians, industry experts view this as a necessary step toward formalizing the digital economy. For now, Binance users in Ethiopia are encouraged to finalize their Birr-related transactions before the May 15 cutoff to avoid any disruptions in their trading activities.