Summary: Despite the People's Bank of China (PBOC) banning local crypto exchanges, global platforms accepting Chinese Yuan (CNY) and Chinese citizens exist. Chinese investors can use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to safely trade digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum on these platforms.

Our analysts have examined over 20 global exchanges, presenting the top five accessible from China, considering factors like user-friendly interfaces, digital asset variety, and competitive fees. These platforms are VPN-accessible and regulation-compliant:

  1. Binance - Best Overall Exchange in China
  2. Gate.io - Best Alternative for No KYC
  3. Bybit - Best Alternative to Binance in China
  4. KuCoin - Best No KYC Alternative in China
  5. OKX - Good Alternative for Beginners
Table of Contents

Top Crypto Platforms in China

Our experts have thoroughly studied over 20 crypto platforms to reveal the top 5 options for Chinese investors. We've conducted a detailed assessment, comparing the benefits and drawbacks of each platform. Based on this analysis, we've compiled the top 5 crypto platforms accessible from China below to help you get started on your journey into digital assets.

1. Binance

Binance, though globally recognized, is a highly popular choice among Chinese investors who are looking to trade digital assets securely, despite the People's Bank of China's (PBOC) prohibition. It supports more than 350 crypto assets, maintains low 0.1% fees, and provides diverse trading options (e.g., Spot, Options, Derivatives & Futures). Its user-friendly interface and Chinese language support cater to a wide range of investors, while robust security measures ensure confidence.

Binance's dedication to regulatory standards, functionality, user-friendly interface, and security enhances its standing as a top crypto exchange accessible from China. It allows fast and cheap Chinese Yuan (CNY) deposit methods, through methods like bank transfers, Alipay, WeChat Pay, credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and several digital payment platforms, accessed using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

Best Crypto Exchange China

2. Gate.io

Gate.io makes its mark in the Chinese market as our second-best platform, mainly due to its no-KYC trading, which prioritizes user privacy. This feature means Chinese investors can register and start cryptocurrency trading with just an email address and password, providing an essential workaround amidst PBOC's crypto restrictions. Its impressive portfolio of over 1,400 crypto assets, along with a competitive transaction fee of 0.12%, makes Gate.io an attractive choice. Additionally, it offers a diverse range of features such as spot trading, derivatives, leverage, lending, and more.

When it comes to security, Gate.io stands tall with robust measures like cold storage and two-factor authentication. Nonetheless, its complex interface could be challenging for novice traders, and the absence of some CNY deposit options like Alipay and WeChat may dissuade some users But, with the aid of VPNs, Chinese investors can conveniently navigate these hurdles and access the platform's offerings.

Gate.io China

3. Bybit

Bybit secures our third spot and functions as a prime alternative to Binance in the Chinese crypto market, especially for investors keen on derivatives trading. Celebrated for its emphasis on derivatives contracts, Bybit offers a reputable platform with up to 25x leverage, catering to Chinese investors navigating the PBOC's crypto restrictions via VPNs. Its solid security measures, user-friendly interface, and dependable customer support ensure a seamless trading experience for Chinese investors.

Additionally, Bybit promises low trading fees (0.1%), quick transaction speeds, and Chinese language support while handling substantial trading volumes, making it a compelling choice for both casual and professional traders. The platform enables the same Chinese Yuan (CNY) deposit methods as Binance, which can be used by Chinese investors to fund their trading activities.

Bybit China

4. KuCoin

KuCoin is a formidable institution in China's cryptocurrency ecosystem and stands 4th in our ranking, offering No-KYC trading akin to Gate.io. Its user-friendly interface, round-the-clock customer service, and Chinese language support make it appealing to local users, especially when accessed via VPNs. With a wide selection of over 700 cryptocurrencies, including emerging meme coins, KuCoin empowers investors to explore varied investment strategies.

KuCoin distinguishes itself with a competitive trading fee of 0.1%, thus being cost-effective for frequent traders. It also encompasses features like spot trading, futures, staking, lending, and its native KuCoin Shares (KCS) token. However, similar to Gate.io, it lacks direct CNY deposit options, which might restrict its allure for users wishing to trade with local currency. But, this hurdle can be circumvented through alternative deposit options accessible to Chinese investors.

KuCoin CNY

5. Bitget

Bitget claims the 5th spot in our ranking, marking its strong presence in China's crypto market, particularly for investors accessing global exchanges via VPNs due to the PBOC's restrictions. It operates as a No-KYC platform, prioritizing user privacy and ease of access. Bitget is notable for its extensive focus on derivatives trading, providing up to an astounding 100x leverage on over 450 crypto assets, making it a robust platform for risk-tolerant investors.

Equipped with a user-friendly interface and Chinese language support, Bitget appeals to both novices and seasoned traders. While it doesn't support direct CNY deposits, it compensates with a range of globally recognized deposit methods, making it an attractive option for Chinese investors. The platform has also been exploited before resulting in loss of customer funds. We recommend the other four platforms before needing to explore Bitget for safety reasons.

Is Crypto Regulated in China?

The cryptocurrency domain is a rapidly evolving field bridging the worlds of technology and finance, and its regulation in China is intricate and multifaceted. The chief regulatory authority overseeing crypto in China is the People's Bank of China (PBOC).

The PBOC has adopted a proactive yet restrictive stance towards cryptocurrencies, aiming to control potential risks while keeping a tight rein on the sector's activities. To this end, the PBOC has issued several directives and regulations relevant to cryptocurrency activities, leading to a ban on local crypto exchanges and Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs).

These measures also incorporate provisions relating to Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing, consistent with global standards and practices. Nevertheless, Chinese investors are finding ways to continue their crypto activities through global platforms using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

How to Buy Bitcoin in China

Despite the restrictive crypto regulations set by the People's Bank of China (PBOC), purchasing Bitcoin from China remains possible through secure and innovative methods. Here's a concise guide to help you acquire Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies:

  1. Choose a Global Exchange: Consider global platforms accessible from China, such as Binance Global, Bybit, Gate.io, KuCoin, and Bitget.
  2. Register: Sign up on your chosen platform. Some may require No-KYC procedures for easy access.
  3. Deposit Funds: Add funds into your account through globally recognized methods. While direct Chinese Yuan (CNY) deposits may not be available, alternatives can be found.
  4. Buy Bitcoin: Within the exchange interface, select Bitcoin, enter the purchase amount, and confirm the transaction.
  5. Monitor: Maintain a constant watch on your investment due to the volatile nature of cryptocurrencies. Remember to use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for secure access to these platforms from China.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, despite the People's Bank of China's (PBOC) restrictive stance on cryptocurrencies, Chinese investors still have access to an array of global crypto exchanges such as Binance, Gate.io, Bybit, KuCoin, and Bitget. These platforms offer user-friendly interfaces, a broad variety of digital assets, and competitive fees. Though the need for VPNs to access these exchanges introduces an additional step, it allows Chinese investors to securely navigate the crypto marketplace.

With varying strengths and weaknesses across these platforms, it's crucial for investors to carefully analyze their individual needs and objectives, coupled with the due diligence of potential regulatory impacts and security considerations. The rapidly evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies in China continues to provide opportunities for those keen on exploring the world of digital assets.