From a tightening regulatory environment and the shutdown of domestic trading channels, mainland Chinese users can only complete deposits and withdrawals through overseas exchanges (such as OKX) and then move the assets to other wallets to achieve the purchase of cryptocurrencies. The specific steps include registering an account on an overseas platform, copying the deposit address, withdrawing from the original platform and selecting the same network, and ensuring that the address and network match before completing the transfer.
In this article we outline a viable path for mainland users to legally obtain digital assets under the current regulatory climate. By breaking down the registration on major overseas exchanges, obtaining deposit addresses, and performing cross‑platform withdrawals step by step, we help readers safely and compliantly complete cryptocurrency purchases and transfers. For the full process and practical details, please continue reading.
How Will Mainland China Users Buy Cryptocurrencies Going Forward?
Among the three leading exchanges, OKX continues to operate. Users who wish to purchase cryptocurrencies can transfer assets from their original platform to OKX. Below, we use Huobi as an example to demonstrate the complete asset migration workflow.
Step 1: Obtain a Deposit Address on OKX
- Visit the OKX website and click Register to create a new account (log in directly if you already have one).
- Open the OKX APP home page and select “Deposit”.
- Choose the currency USDT, and pick the network USDT‑TRC20 (the lowest fee).
- Click “Copy Address”.

Step 2: Withdraw from Huobi to OKX
- Open the Huobi APP, go to “Assets” → “Withdraw”.
- Select the currency USDT.

- Paste the OKX address you copied earlier into the “Withdrawal Address” field.
- Choose the withdrawal network TRC20, enter the amount to withdraw, and tick “I have verified the withdrawal information and understand the risks”.
- After completing the three‑factor security verification, click “Confirm”.

Tip: The withdrawal address and network must match (e.g., both TRC20 or both ERC20), otherwise assets may be lost.
Cryptocurrency Investment Risks
1. Technical Risks
- Blockchains still face 51% attacks, high operating costs, and selective transaction processing.
- Future technical upgrades (such as Ethereum’s transition to proof‑of‑stake) are expected to mitigate some of these risks.
2. Market Hype and Scams
- Some companies lack real technical capability and rely solely on the “blockchain” buzz to raise funds.
- The market is flooded with numerous air‑coins, making it difficult to discern genuine projects; investors should stay vigilant.
3. Regulatory Uncertainty
- Countries around the world adopt differing stances toward digital currencies, and regulatory frameworks are still evolving.
- Whether decentralized assets like Bitcoin will fall under regulation, and how they will be regulated, remains uncertain.
Operational Precautions
- Address Accuracy: Ensure that the deposit address and the withdrawal address use the same network (ERC20 vs TRC20).
- Network Choice: ERC20 generally offers higher security but incurs higher fees; TRC20 has low fees and is suitable for small‑value transactions.
- Security Verification: Multi‑factor authentication during withdrawals cannot be skipped, as it protects against account theft.
Note for U.S. Residents: Access to cryptocurrency services should be through Binance.US rather than the global Binance platform.
Tax Reminder: Gains from cryptocurrency transactions may be taxable in your local jurisdiction; consult a tax professional for guidance.
The above constitutes a complete guide to “How Will Mainland China Buy Cryptocurrencies After the Regulatory Shift? How Mainland Users Can Purchase Crypto”. For more practical information about mainland users acquiring digital assets, please follow other articles from Bitaigen.
Related Reading
- Top 10 Blockchain Apps 2024: OKX, Binance & Trading Rankings
- Top Mobile Crypto Trading Apps 2024: Binance, OKX, Coinbase
- Step-by-Step OKX Deposit & Withdrawal Guide for Mobile App & Web
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