No Crypto Tax in Thailand Until 2029—If You Follow the Rules

Thailand just dropped a major update that could make it a hotspot for crypto traders and investors. If you’re into digital currencies or just getting started, this is one of those pieces of news you’ll want to pay attention to. From 2025 to 2029, the Thai government is waiving capital gains taxes on crypto sales — but with one important condition: you’ve got to trade through a locally licensed exchange.

Let’s break down what this means, why it’s a big deal, and how Thailand stacks up against other countries riding the crypto tax reform wave.

No Capital Gains Tax? Here’s What That Means for You

The Thai Ministry of Finance announced that from January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2029, anyone selling cryptocurrency in Thailand won’t have to pay capital gains taxes — as long as those transactions are done through an exchange that’s licensed within the country.

So what’s the big deal?

Well, capital gains tax is the tax you pay on the profit you make when you sell something for more than you bought it for. In the case of crypto, if you bought Bitcoin low and sold it high, that profit usually gets taxed. But with this new policy in place, that tax disappears for five years — again, only if you trade on a platform approved by Thai regulators.

This move isn’t just about making crypto investors happy. It’s a strategic step by Thailand to become a leading digital finance hub. They’re offering incentives to attract both investors and crypto companies, aiming to keep trading activity within the country’s borders and under regulatory supervision.

Thailand Is Joining a Global Trend: Crypto Tax Incentives Everywhere

Thailand isn’t alone in this game. More and more countries are realizing that crypto isn’t going anywhere, and they’re adjusting their tax policies to stay competitive. Here’s a quick tour around the globe:

Vietnam recently passed legislation giving cryptocurrencies a legal definition, set to kick in at the start of next year. This is a foundational step that often comes before tax rules get revamped.
In offshore havens like the Cayman Islands, British Virgin Islands, Bahamas, and Vanuatu, capital gains tax on crypto is already nonexistent.
Singapore, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates also impose no capital gains tax on individuals trading crypto. That’s a big draw for both traders and crypto startups looking for a tax-friendly base.
In Europe, countries like Germany and Portugal have policies that let investors avoid capital gains tax altogether if they hold their crypto for more than a year. It’s a solid way to reward long-term holding over constant trading.
On the flip side, Brazil has taken a different route, ending its crypto tax exemption and instead introducing a flat 17.5% tax on crypto gains. It’s a reminder that crypto tax policy is still evolving globally, and countries are choosing very different paths.

With all this in mind, Thailand’s five-year tax break could help it attract not only individual investors but also crypto businesses looking for a new home base.

Why Thailand Wants You to Use Licensed Exchanges Only

Now here’s where the fine print comes in: to get the tax break, you must trade through a locally licensed crypto exchange. This isn’t just a minor detail — it’s the heart of the policy.

Thailand wants to keep crypto trading activity within its regulatory framework. Why? Because it gives the government better oversight, protects investors, and reduces the risks associated with unregulated platforms.

The Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is cracking down on unlicensed offshore exchanges. In fact, they’ve already taken action against several global platforms like Bybit, OKX, CoinEx, XT.COM, and Bybit (yes, listed twice because it was targeted for repeat issues). These platforms were allegedly serving Thai users without proper local licenses, and the SEC wasn’t having it.

By linking the tax exemption to licensed exchanges, Thailand is encouraging crypto users to stay compliant and trade within the country’s official systems. It’s a carrot-and-stick approach: offer a benefit (no tax) but only if you play by the rules (use a licensed exchange).

Crypto Businesses Are Expanding in Thailand

Thailand’s welcoming attitude isn’t just attracting traders — it’s also drawing in some of the biggest names in the crypto space.

For example:

KuCoin, one of the world’s leading crypto exchanges, secured a local license and officially launched operations in Thailand. This allows them to tap into a rapidly growing market with full legal backing.
Tether, known for its stablecoin USDT, launched a tokenized gold asset in Thailand, listing it on a licensed local platform called Maxbit. It’s a sign that companies see real opportunity in Thailand’s crypto-friendly environment.

These moves show that Thailand’s efforts aren’t just talk. The country is creating a regulated environment where both users and companies can thrive — and where the government still maintains control over the financial ecosystem.

Summary: Thailand’s Crypto Tax Shift Could Be a Game Changer

Thailand’s decision to waive capital gains taxes on crypto sales through licensed exchanges from 2025 to 2029 isn’t just a win for investors — it’s a smart, strategic step toward becoming a major player in the global crypto scene.

Here’s why this matters:

Investors benefit from a significant tax break, encouraging more people to enter or stay in the crypto market.
The government maintains control by linking the exemption to local, licensed platforms.
Crypto businesses are responding, expanding their operations to take advantage of Thailand’s open arms.
Other countries are doing the same, showing this is a global shift toward friendlier crypto tax environments — though not all nations are following the same path.

If you’re in Thailand, this is the perfect time to start learning how to use a licensed exchange. And if you’re watching from abroad, keep an eye on Thailand — it’s quickly becoming a major name in the crypto world.