Binance is taking strict measures to enforce international regulatory compliance. Recently, the world’s leading cryptocurrency platform announced a major operational shift. Binance will no longer process transactions involving 16 specific crypto exchanges and crypto-asset service providers. Consequently, the restricted list from Binance includes several little-known crypto platforms alongside one major global player, HTX.
Binance stated that these measures are absolutely necessary to meet regulatory requirements across its operating jurisdictions. Furthermore, the exchange emphasized that these actions help maintain a secure environment for its users.
Why Is Binance Cracking Down on HTX & Other Crypto Exchanges?
This aggressive move directly follows a series of international sanctions. In July 2026, the European Union sanctioned HTX. The EU alleges that the exchange helped Russia circumvent restrictions tied to the Ukraine invasion. Specifically, regulators accused HTX of providing financial services for A7 Limited Liability Company. This Russia-linked cross-border payments firm is seemingly connected to A7 Nigeria and A7 Africa.
Additionally, nearly every firm blocked by Binance appeared on the EU’s updated sanctions list for frustrating restrictions related to Russia. Meanwhile, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned two specific entities, Shelbit and Aban Tether Exchange, over alleged Iran-linked money laundering and sanctions evasion.
Phased Implementation & Blocked Entities
Binance is executing these transaction blocks in a phased approach. Restrictions on Shelbit and Aban Tether Exchange already took effect on August 7. Subsequently, Binance cut off A7 Nigeria, A7 Africa, and PilotFinance Ltd. on August 13.
Starting next week on August 23, the list expands significantly. Binance will block HTX (Huobi Global SA), EXMO Ltd., Rapira, Aifory Pro, ABCeX, WhiteBird, NoOnecrypto, Tradex, Monease, BitPapa, and Exnode/Exnode Pay.
Binance has issued a clear warning to its users. They must refrain from sending or receiving funds involving these 16 entities after their specific cutoff dates. Afterward, any transactions involving these platforms will trigger an immediate compliance review. Ultimately, this review may result in severe wallet restrictions for the user.
HTX Under Fire & Justin Sun’s Response
HTX remains the most prominent casualty in this regulatory sweep. The exchange previously operated as Huobi before TRON founder Justin Sun acquired a major stake in 2022 and rebranded it.
Beyond the recent EU actions, the UK separately sanctioned HTX earlier this year. Authorities cited alleged connections to Russia and the publication of unlawful financial promotions. Moreover, blockchain intelligence firm TRM Labs claims that HTX actively rotated hot wallets and funding addresses to evade those exact UK restrictions.
Following the Binance announcement, Justin Sun took to X on Friday to clarify the exchange’s position. Sun stated:
This matter concerns only Binance’s UK and EU users.
HTX does not conduct business in the UK or EU, and settlement negotiations with UK and EU regulators are already in progress.
