Kazakhstan to Ban Outdoor Currency Rate Displays at Exchange Offices Starting September

Kazakhstan’s National Bank has introduced new rules prohibiting exchange offices from displaying currency rates outside their premises, reports Orda.kz.

Effective September 9, 2025, exchange rate boards will no longer be allowed on the streets. The change is outlined in a resolution by the National Bank dated June 23 and applies to all currency exchange points, except those located in airports, railway stations, business centers, casinos, and border checkpoints.

According to the new requirements, information about the purchase and sale rates of foreign currency may only be displayed inside the premises — either near the service counter or on an information board no smaller than 0.4×0.4 meters,  the resolution states.

The ban covers all forms of external displays, including boards, digital screens, standalone signs, and rate postings on building facades, rooftops, or windows. Only exchange offices within major transport and commercial hubs are exempt.

The National Bank explained that outdoor currency boards are not classified as outdoor advertising and may distract drivers. The regulator also believes the rule will improve transparency in exchange operations and reduce the risk of manipulation.

Previously, the Association of Currency Exchange Offices criticized the proposal, arguing that rate boards already undergo full regulatory review as outdoor advertising, including police and municipal approval.

The group claims the new rule infringes on consumers’ right to timely information and could hurt legal exchange offices in remote areas, potentially reviving the presence of unregulated street money changers.

Original Author: Ruslan Loginov