Thailand’s Ministry of Finance has approved a five-year tax exemption on capital gains from cryptocurrency sales, marking a major milestone in the country’s digital asset strategy. Effective from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2029, the exemption will only apply to crypto transactions conducted through licensed digital asset service providers.
Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat announced the measure on 17 June, highlighting the government’s ambition to position Thailand as a global financial and technological innovation hub. The waiver is part of a broader plan to enhance crypto adoption while ensuring regulatory oversight and compliance with global anti-money laundering standards.
Focus on Regulated Platforms and FATF Compliance
The exemption is strictly limited to crypto trades made through platforms licensed by the Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This move aligns with the country’s commitment to the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) guidelines, particularly regarding Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT).
By encouraging users to transact on regulated exchanges, the Thai government aims to create a safer trading environment while boosting investor confidence. It also sends a clear signal that Thailand is open to innovation, but only within a framework of strict oversight.
Economic Growth and Innovation Through Crypto
The Ministry of Finance estimates that the crypto tax waiver will stimulate medium-term economic growth, projecting an increase in government revenue by no less than 1 billion baht (approximately $30.7 million USD). The policy also underscores Thailand’s interest in using crypto assets for fundraising purposes, a key application of blockchain technology.
“Digital assets can be an important tool for driving innovation and funding startups,” the Ministry noted, positioning crypto not just as a speculative asset but as a vital piece of the country’s economic puzzle.
This initiative follows earlier announcements, including plans to allow crypto payments for tourists as part of wider economic and regulatory reforms introduced in May 2025.
SEC Cracks Down as Others Expand
The tax exemption comes shortly after the Thai SEC took action against five international crypto exchanges: Bybit, OKX, CoinEx, XT.COM, and a second mention of Bybit. These platforms are accused of operating without proper local licences, and the bans are set to take effect on 28 June.
At the same time, other players are expanding. KuCoin received a Thai SEC licence on 13 June and launched a regulated local subsidiary. Tether, the issuer of USDt, also entered the Thai market recently by listing its tokenised gold asset on Maxbit, a local exchange, in mid-May.
These contrasting developments, tax incentives for compliant operators alongside enforcement against unlicensed platforms, signal that Thailand is serious about becoming a crypto-friendly jurisdiction, but only on its terms.
A Balanced Approach to Crypto Regulation
Thailand’s five-year crypto tax break is more than a financial incentive, it’s a strategic move to attract global investment, promote digital innovation, and assert regulatory authority. With a growing ecosystem of regulated players and a clear stance on compliance, the country is carving out a balanced path that may serve as a model for others navigating the complexities of crypto regulation.
As Southeast Asia continues to emerge as a crypto hotspot, Thailand’s policy may well set a new standard in integrating innovation with regulation.
