Japan Adds Garantex to Russia Sanctions List and Freezes Assets

Japan added Russian crypto exchange Garantex to its asset-freeze list on Oct. 2, expanding sanctions against Russia. The measures target 33 organizations and nine individuals, while also restricting capital transactions and certain services. Japan separately imposed restrictions involving 35 vessels linked to Russia.

The move adds Garantex to a growing international sanctions regime. The European Union listed the exchange in 2025, citing its role in providing access to the global financial system for sanctioned Russian entities. U.S. authorities have also designated Garantex Europe OU.

Japan’s action could further limit financial channels available to Russia-linked crypto businesses and raise compliance risks for counterparties. Garantex had already faced major disruption in 2025 after sanctions and the blocking of wallets holding more than $28 million in assets.