Thailand Approves USDT and USDC for Crypto Trading, Aligning with Global Trends

Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has expanded its list of approved cryptocurrencies, adding the two largest stablecoins, Tether (USDT) and Circle (USDC), as trading pairs on regulated digital asset exchanges. The decision follows a public consultation in February, where most respondents supported the move. The new regulations will take effect on March 16.

Previously, only Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP, Stellar (XLM), and select tokens used in the Bank of Thailand’s settlement system were permitted for trading. By recognizing USDT and USDC, Thailand aligns with global trends where stablecoins play a critical role in crypto trading and payments. Stablecoins are among the fastest-growing segments in the digital asset market, particularly in regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

USDT, the most dominant stablecoin, has a market capitalization of $142 billion, followed by USDC at $58 billion. Their approval in Thailand signals increasing institutional acceptance and could pave the way for broader use in the nation’s financial sector. Tether welcomed the decision, emphasizing its potential to enhance crypto adoption in the country.

As Thailand strengthens its crypto regulations, the inclusion of stablecoins reflects a growing acknowledgment of their utility in digital finance. The move is expected to boost liquidity, improve market efficiency, and facilitate cross-border transactions. This regulatory shift aligns Thailand with other major economies that recognize the importance of stablecoins in the evolving digital asset landscape.

With USDT and USDC now approved for trading, Thailand is positioning itself as a more competitive player in the global crypto market, fostering innovation and investment in the sector.