Thailand Launches Consultation on New Digital Asset Listing Rules

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Thailand has launched a public consultation on new digital asset listing rules, effective from June 20, 2025, to July 21, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance market transparency and align with the country's broader strategy to become a global crypto hub. The proposed rules allow exchanges to list digital tokens issued by themselves or related parties, provided they adhere to stricter disclosure requirements to prevent insider trading and market manipulation.

The consultation seeks feedback on principles to improve the selection process for digital assets on exchanges. The SEC emphasizes the importance of regulatory mechanisms to prevent conflicts of interest and unfair practices. Exchanges will be required to disclose the names of persons related to digital token issuers and display warning symbols in reporting systems. For tokens already listed before the new rules take effect, issuers will have 90 days to provide related-party disclosures to exchanges.

This move is part of Thailand's efforts to attract international crypto businesses and establish itself as a regional financial center. The country recently eliminated capital gains taxes on crypto sales for five years, with the government projecting economic benefits of no less than 1,000 million baht over the medium term. The tax exemption is part of the government's ambition to make Thailand one of the world's financial hubs. Thailand is also exploring pilot programs for crypto tourism payments in Phuket and considering allowing spot Bitcoin ETFs for retail investors.

In January, the SEC Secretary-General stated that Thailand must align with the global trend of increasing cryptocurrency adoption. The proposed changes reflect the SEC's commitment to fostering a robust and transparent digital asset market while ensuring investor protections. The consultation marks another significant step in Thailand's efforts to position itself as a global crypto hub, aligning with recent tax exemptions and regulatory reforms.