Thailand Introduces New Crypto Regulations Amid Global AML Standards Push

Thailand's Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued new regulations for digital asset businesses, requiring them to comply with Travel Rule requirements. These rules will take effect on February 27, 2027, giving operators nearly six months to develop systems for transmitting, receiving, and monitoring information tied to crypto transfers.

Under the framework, operators must collect information on customers and their counterparties in connection with digital asset transfers. They must also verify ownership of self-hosted wallets when customers transfer assets to or receive them from such wallets.

The SEC said the measures are intended to improve operators' ability to manage money-laundering risks and prevent digital asset services from being used for technology-related crime. Thailand's changes come as more jurisdictions implement the Financial Action Task Force's standards for virtual assets.

Thailand's regulator first sought public feedback on proposed Travel Rule principles in March before opening another consultation on draft regulations in June. The Travel Rule forms part of a broader period of crypto rulemaking in Thailand, while the SEC is separately considering measures that would expand investor access to regulated digital asset products.