Peru crypto users double to 1 million, leapfrog Chile

Peru's central bank digital currency pilot has exceeded 3.5 million users, more than the active crypto user count, and performed well enough that authorities extended it through March 2027.

Peru has not enacted comprehensive crypto-specific legislation on the level of Brazil or the EU. Current rules focus on anti-money laundering measures for virtual asset service providers, leaving user protections thin. The country has cycled through multiple presidents in recent years, and that political instability means regulatory direction could shift quickly.

For crypto exchanges and token projects looking at Latin America, Peru offers a growing user base. The regulatory environment remains uncertain. The CBDC pilot's scale suggests the central bank is comfortable with digital money. It has not signaled whether it will treat private crypto assets favorably. Whether Peru introduces a dedicated crypto bill or extends the current AML-only regime will determine the market's direction.

The Peru Blockchain Conference 2026 is scheduled for later this year. Organizers said they expect the user count to continue rising if the regulatory picture clarifies.