Bolivian Retailers Adopt USDT to Hedge Against Boliviano's Volatility

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino announced on June 7, 2025, that major Bolivian retailers including Toyota, BYD, and Yamaha are now accepting Tether’s USDT as a form of paymentUSDT Adoption Surges in Bolivia Fueled by Tether and Banks^[1]. This development marks a significant milestone in Bolivia’s growing adoption of stablecoins, driven by the country’s economic challenges and regulatory shifts. The move reflects a strategic shift toward digital currencies to mitigate the risks associated with local currency volatility.

Bolivia’s regulatory environment has evolved to support stablecoin transactions, with the repeal of prior cryptocurrency bans in 2024 under Board Resolution N°082/2024USDT Adoption Surges in Bolivia Fueled by Tether and Banks^[1]. This policy change allows regulated virtual asset transactions, including stablecoin custody services, which have been facilitated by institutions like Banco Bisa, a leading Bolivian bankUSDT Adoption Surges in Bolivia Fueled by Tether and Banks^[1]. The bank’s introduction of stablecoin custody services underscores institutional confidence in USDT’s role as a stable medium of exchange. Ardoino emphasized that the real-world adoption of USDT is evident in retail settings, with products such as Cadbury Dairy Milk, Oreo, and Milka chocolate priced in the stablecoinTether CEO Paolo Ardoino Reveals Massive USDT Adoption in Bolivia^[3].

The surge in USDT adoption is part of a broader trend in Bolivia, where cryptocurrency usage grew by 355% in the last quarter of 2024USDT Adoption in Bolivia Strengthens as Regulated Access Nears Launch^[2]. This growth is attributed to factors such as remittance flows, demand for faster international payments, and the need to protect asset value amid economic instability. A partnership between EFY and Banco Unión, approved by the Financial System Supervision Authority (ASFI), is set to provide regulated access to USDT for Bolivian investorsUSDT Adoption in Bolivia Strengthens as Regulated Access Nears Launch^[2]. This initiative aims to enhance transaction security and traceability, aligning with global efforts to integrate digital assets into formal financial systems.

The adoption of USDT in Bolivia is also linked to the country’s historical struggles with currency devaluation. The Boliviano, Bolivia’s fiat currency, has faced significant fluctuations, prompting residents to seek alternatives. By pricing goods in USDT, retailers offer consumers a hedge against inflation and exchange rate risks. Ardoino noted that this shift is not merely about cryptocurrency but represents a broader pursuit of financial stability in economies with fragile currenciesUSDT Adoption Surges in Bolivia Fueled by Tether and Banks^[1].

Financial institutions and regulators are increasingly recognizing the potential of stablecoins to enhance economic resilience. The Bolivian Central Bank’s decision to permit stablecoin custody services reflects a pragmatic approach to managing monetary instability. Analysts suggest that Bolivia’s model could serve as a template for other nations facing similar challenges, particularly in Latin America, where stablecoin usage in international payments reached 71% in 2024USDT Adoption in Bolivia Strengthens as Regulated Access Nears Launch^[2]. The integration of USDT into daily commerce highlights the evolving role of digital assets in addressing systemic economic issues.

Despite the progress, challenges remain, including the need for public education on stablecoin usage and operational risks. EFY has pledged to launch financial literacy campaigns to address common mistakes in transfer networks and promote safer participation in digital marketsUSDT Adoption in Bolivia Strengthens as Regulated Access Nears Launch^[2]. These efforts aim to build trust in USDT as a reliable tool for everyday transactions.

The global market for stablecoins continues to expand, with USDT’s market capitalization surpassing $112 billionUSDT Adoption Surges in Bolivia Fueled by Tether and Banks^[1]. In 2024, stablecoins facilitated $26 billion in transfers, a 53% increase from the previous yearUSDT Adoption in Bolivia Strengthens as Regulated Access Nears Launch^[2]. Bolivia’s adoption of USDT aligns with this trajectory, positioning the country as a key player in the digital finance landscape. As regulatory frameworks mature and institutional support grows, the role of stablecoins in global commerce is expected to deepen, offering new avenues for financial inclusion and economic stability.