Honduras
AI Agent Legal Status: undefined · Autonomy: low
Legal Framework
Honduras gained attention through the 'Bitcoin Valley' project in Santa Lucía and the establishment of ZEDEs (Zones for Employment and Economic Development) which operated as semi-autonomous special economic zones with their own legal frameworks. The ZEDE law was repealed in 2022 but existing zones have transitional protections. The BCH (Central Bank) has warned against crypto but not banned it.
Key Laws & Regulations
- ◆Ley Orgánica de las ZEDE (repealed 2022, transitional provisions)
- ◆BCH communications on cryptocurrencies
- ◆Ley de Firma Electrónica
- ◆Código de Comercio
Business Formation
Sociedad Anónima de Capital Variable (S.A. de C.V.) is common. Registration through the Chamber of Commerce. ZEDEs offered alternative incorporation frameworks but their future is uncertain after the law's repeal. Standard process is bureaucratic.
Tax Implications
Corporate income tax at 25% plus solidarity surcharge. VAT at 15%. ZEDEs offered preferential tax regimes but status uncertain. No crypto-specific tax framework. Limited double taxation treaties.
Opportunities
Bitcoin Valley and ZEDE experience created crypto-aware communities. Low operating costs. Growing remittance-driven crypto adoption. Potential for future innovation-friendly policies.
Highlights
Bitcoin Valley experiment demonstrated grassroots crypto adoption. ZEDE framework (while repealed) showed willingness to experiment with alternative governance. Low operating costs.
Risks & Challenges
ZEDE repeal creates legal uncertainty for special zone entities. Security concerns. Political instability. Limited tech infrastructure. Weak regulatory environment. High poverty rates limiting domestic market.