Thailand SEC Opens Consultation on Crypto Derivatives Licensing Rules

Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) opened a consultation on draft licensing and reporting rules for digital-asset derivatives businesses, setting terms for how existing crypto firms could enter the regulated market.

Digital-asset exchanges and brokers could apply to operate derivatives exchanges without forming separate companies. The proposal also covers licenses for derivatives intermediaries, exchange operators and clearinghouses, as well as financial-reporting standards for exchanges and clearinghouses.

The draft would prevent digital-asset custodians and securities depositories from applying for derivatives clearinghouse licenses. For licensed derivatives businesses, it would extend the period to begin operations from 180 days to 270 days after licensing. Businesses could seek an additional extension of up to 120 days for valid reasons.

The current proposal follows an Aug. 31 SEC announcement that cryptocurrencies and digital tokens had been designated as additional underlying products and variables under Thailand’s Derivatives Act. The related notification is dated March 5, 2026. An earlier SEC consultation on principles ran from April 20 to May 20, with most participants agreeing with the principles and offering substantive suggestions.

The draft remains under consultation, and the SEC has not set an effective date. Comments are due Nov. 28.