Bangkok: The SEC has issued regulations on government digital tokens to increase savings and investment options and opportunities for the public, and to promote the use of technology and innovation to access sources of funds, effective from July 21, 2025.
According to Thai News Agency, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has introduced criteria for the government digital token (G-Token) to enhance the efficiency of the government's financial resource access. This initiative aims to boost opportunities for public savings and investments in the digital age, utilizing digital token channels to foster the country's digital economy. The Cabinet meeting on May 13, 2025, approved the Ministry of Finance's actions related to G-Token issuance and operation, aligning with Section 10, paragraph one of the Public Debt Management Act B.E. 2548. This loan strategy is part of the budget deficit loan framework, which received favorable feedback from most stakeholders during the public consultation on the proposed principles and draft announcements.
The SEC's announcement includes several key points. Firstly, it defines G-Token as an additional digital token under the Digital Asset Business Act B.E. 2561. These tokens, issued by the Ministry of Finance, serve as a method for the government to access funding sources, with holders entitled to receive principal repayment and returns as specified by the Ministry of Finance.
Secondly, there are exemptions from the need for permission to offer G-Tokens, submission of information lists, and draft prospectuses. Additionally, there is no requirement to offer these tokens through a digital token offering portal service provider, aligning with the Ministry of Finance's guidelines for supervising other investment products.
Thirdly, the SEC exempts digital asset business operators and securities business operators from licensing requirements. This includes exceptions for digital asset brokerages and exchanges related to G-Token services, as well as securities companies, which will be regulated according to the Securities and Exchange Act B.E. 2535.
Lastly, criteria for G-Token services are established, covering areas such as customer advice and service, data collection and evaluation, and guidelines for disclosing indicative prices. Specific criteria for digital asset exchanges regarding contracting, information disclosure, and G-Token investment are also outlined.
The announcement of these criteria has been published in the Government Gazette and will take effect on July 21, 2025.