Today's Edition
AMEINAH AL ZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
With cryptocurrency mining banned on farms, landowners are legally accountable for such unauthorised activities — even if these are taking place without their knowledge — the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) confirmed in a statement to Aletihad.
The authority advised farm owners to keep a close eye on their land and ensure it is not being used for prohibited activities. For those renting out their property, lease agreements should be officially registered and clearly specify the permitted activities, it added.
ADAFSA has recently reinforced its ban on cryptocurrency mining on agricultural land after several farms were found violating the policy. A hefty fine of Dh100,000 has been introduced for violations, with the amount doubling for repeat offences. The penalty also includes suspension of all services and support for farm owners, power cut-offs, and confiscation of mining equipment.
Support services will be suspended for one year from the date of the violation. After this period, farm owners may have services reinstated, provided they meet certain conditions: the fine must be paid, the violation corrected, and the farm must comply with all relevant requirements and standards, the authority said.
By tightening the penalty on cryptocurrency mining on farms, ADAFSA aims to “ensure that agricultural resources are used for activities that support food and environmental security - not for unlawful or high-consumption activities”.
While farm owners are advised to consult the authority regarding any non-traditional activities, ADAFSA is also committed to supporting their efforts to grow their income and invest resources. The authority has expanded its list of permitted economic activities by adding 74 new entries, bringing the total to 145.
Farm owners are encouraged to contact ADAFSA to understand the permitted activities and avoid violations.
To enhance awareness, the authority is increasing outreach efforts through media campaigns that clarify prohibited activities. Additionally, inspection teams will be deployed on the ground to educate farmers.
ADAFSA urges the public and farm owners to report illegal cryptocurrency mining or any other suspected violations by calling the Abu Dhabi Government Contact Centre at 800555 or through its official channels. The authority assures that all reports will be treated with strict confidentiality and handled in accordance with the law.
