ADAFSA Reaffirms Ban On Cryptocurrency Mining To Ensure Responsible Use Of Agricultural Land

The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has reiterated its ban on cryptocurrency mining on agricultural land. This move is part of their ongoing efforts to educate agricultural stakeholders in the emirate and ensure farms receive continuous support and services. Cryptocurrency mining is not among the permitted economic activities defined by ADAFSA for farmlands.

Several farms were found misusing agricultural land for cryptocurrency mining, which contradicts the primary purpose of these lands. Farms are meant strictly for agricultural and livestock activities as per existing legislation. Consequently, ADAFSA will halt all services and support to farms that do not comply with these regulations.

ADAFSA has introduced stringent penalties to prevent future violations. A fine of AED100,000 will be imposed on those who breach the rules, with the penalty doubling for repeat offenders. Additionally, ADAFSA will cut off electricity to non-compliant farms, seize mining equipment, and refer cases to relevant authorities for further legal action.

The authority confirms that both farm owners and tenants involved in cryptocurrency mining will face violations due to the adverse effects on agricultural sustainability and biosecurity. These actions align with ADAFSA's commitment to maintaining proper farm practices.

ADAFSA urges all farm owners and workers in both plant and animal sectors to avoid activities outside approved agricultural uses. Engaging in unapproved practices risks losing support and services from ADAFSA. Such actions also conflict with their sustainability policies aimed at reducing improper practices on farms.

This clarification comes after detecting several violations where farms misused land for cryptocurrency mining. The core purpose of farmland use is limited to agriculture and livestock activities, as outlined in applicable legislation.

By enforcing these measures, ADAFSA aims to safeguard agricultural sustainability while ensuring compliance with established guidelines. Their efforts focus on maintaining biosecurity and supporting legitimate farming activities across the emirate.

With inputs from WAM