The Securities and Exchange Commission of Thailand (SEC) has officially added Tether (USDT) to its list of approved cryptocurrencies. This decision allows the world's largest stablecoin to be freely traded on regulated exchanges in Thailand and used for payments.
According to the announcement, the regulation will take effect on March 16, 2025. The move is part of Thailand’s updated digital asset policy, which was developed in collaboration with industry experts and the public.
Growth of Thailand’s Digital Asset Market
According to Chainalysis, Thailand has been actively developing its cryptocurrency sector and ranks among the top 20 countries for digital asset adoption. USDT already accounts for approximately 40% of crypto trading volumes in the country.
Recognizing USDT at a government level simplifies its use in financial transactions and reduces regulatory risks for businesses and consumers. This decision could also facilitate the integration of USDT into Thailand’s local payment systems.
Tether’s Response
Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino called the approval a major milestone for the industry. He emphasized that the company is committed to strengthening its presence in the region and will continue working on a secure and transparent stablecoin ecosystem in Thailand.
Tether remains the world's largest stablecoin issuer, with USDT holding a market capitalization of $142 billion, serving as a critical bridge between traditional finance and digital assets.
Global Trend Toward Stablecoin Regulation
Thailand’s recognition of USDT reflects a growing global trend of stablecoin integration into financial systems. Regulators worldwide continue adapting their legal frameworks to ensure stability and oversight of digital assets.
Thailand’s approach could serve as a model for other jurisdictions aiming to balance crypto innovation and regulatory compliance.