Thailand's SEC crypto regulations in 2025 require all exchanges serving Thai users to get licensed. Foreign platforms like Bybit and OKX have been blocked. Only nine exchanges are approved, with strict limits on coins, fees, and services.
Thai Crypto Exchange Rules: What You Need to Know in 2025
When it comes to Thai crypto exchange rules, the legal framework governing cryptocurrency trading and exchanges in Thailand. Also known as Thailand cryptocurrency regulation, it’s one of the most structured systems in Southeast Asia—not because it’s open, but because it’s tightly controlled. Unlike countries that banned crypto outright, Thailand lets exchanges operate, but only if they’re licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). That means no random platforms. If it’s not on the SEC’s approved list, it’s illegal to use—even if it claims to be "global" or "offshore."
These rules affect everyone: locals, expats, and tourists. If you’re trading on a Thai exchange, you must complete KYC. No exceptions. The SEC requires full identity verification, and exchanges report all transactions to the tax authority. That’s where Thai crypto tax, the 15% capital gains tax applied to crypto profits in Thailand. Also known as crypto taxation Thailand, it’s not optional. Even if you trade on Binance or KuCoin from Thailand, the tax office still expects you to report it. And yes, they’re catching people—through bank records, exchange data sharing, and even crypto wallet tracing. Holding crypto isn’t illegal. But if you’re buying, selling, or swapping tokens through an unlicensed platform, you’re breaking the law. The penalties? Fines, account freezes, and in extreme cases, criminal charges.
There’s a big difference between what’s technically allowed and what people actually do. Many Thais still use P2P platforms like Paxful or LocalBitcoins to buy USDT with bank transfers, but that’s a gray zone. The SEC doesn’t regulate P2P directly, but banks are instructed to flag suspicious activity. If your account suddenly starts sending large sums to crypto wallets, expect a call from your bank—or worse, the police. Meanwhile, licensed exchanges like Bitkub, Zipmex, and AscendEX are the only safe options. They offer Thai Baht deposits, local customer support, and real compliance. But they also charge higher fees and limit which coins you can trade. You won’t find obscure tokens here. Just Bitcoin, Ethereum, and a handful of approved altcoins.
What’s changing in 2025? The SEC is pushing for more transparency. New rules require exchanges to publish quarterly reports on user activity, liquidity, and security audits. They’re also cracking down on fake airdrops and pump-and-dump schemes that target Thai investors. If a token promises 10x returns with no whitepaper or team, it’s almost certainly illegal. And the government is working with international regulators to track cross-border crypto flows. So if you’re thinking of moving crypto out of Thailand to avoid taxes—don’t. The system is catching up.
Under all this, the real question isn’t whether crypto is allowed in Thailand. It’s whether you’re willing to play by their rules. The system isn’t designed to make you rich. It’s designed to keep you accountable. If you want to trade legally, stick to licensed platforms. Report your gains. Keep records. Skip the hype coins. And remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it’s not just risky—it’s probably against Thai crypto exchange rules.