Switzerland has announced a delay in the activation of its crypto account data sharing framework with international tax authorities, extending the timeline to 2027. Although the crypto-asset reporting framework (CARF) remains enshrined into law on January 1, 2026, the Swiss government will not begin exchanging crypto account information with partner nations until at least a year later. The delay stems from ongoing deliberations regarding which countries will be included in the data-sharing agreements.
Background on the Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF)
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) approved CARF in 2022 as part of a global effort to combat tax evasion through increased transparency in crypto holdings. While 75 countries have signed up to implement CARF over the next two to four years—covering jurisdictions such as Switzerland—some nations like Argentina, El Salvador, Vietnam, and India have yet to commit. Switzerland had previously indicated that their first data exchange was scheduled for 2027, but recent statements suggest uncertainty surrounding the immediate timeline for data transfers.
Reasons for the Delay
The Swiss Federal Council and the State Secretariat for International Finance explained that their tax committee has paused discussions on partner states for the arrangement, resulting in the postponement. The government also cited amendments to local crypto tax laws and transitional provisions aimed at easing compliance for domestic crypto firms as part of recent regulatory updates. In June, Switzerland moved forward with a bill to adopt CARF rules in January 2026, with intentions for the initial data exchange to begin the following year.
Global Context and Industry Impact
In the broader context, the adoption of CARF reflects an increasing push worldwide to enhance transparency in cryptocurrency holdings and enforce tax compliance. Countries such as Brazil are contemplating similar measures; recent reports indicate Brazil is evaluating a tax on international crypto transfers to align with OECD standards. Meanwhile, the U.S. government’s White House is revisiting proposals for the IRS to join CARF, aiming to establish more rigorous capital gains tax reporting for Americans utilizing foreign exchanges.
As regulatory frameworks evolve, the crypto industry continues to face heightened scrutiny from authorities worldwide, emphasizing the importance of compliance amid ongoing efforts to combat tax evasion and promote transparency in the digital asset space.