Tether and Bitqik have unveiled an extensive crypto education program in Laos, focusing on the responsible use of Bitcoin and stablecoins. This initiative, set to run until 2026, targets students, entrepreneurs, and local communities throughout the nation. As interest in digital assets surges, the program is designed to emphasize practical applications and real-world use cases.
The partnership between Tether and Bitqik, one of only two licensed digital asset exchanges in Laos, is crucial for ensuring that users have access to reliable information. Bitqik operates under the approval of the Bank of Laos and offers trading and brokerage services for cryptocurrencies. Both organizations believe that comprehensive education is vital for the integration of digital assets into everyday financial practices.
Students will benefit from online learning resources, and quarterly in-person events will be organized in major cities such as Vientiane, Pakse, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang. These sessions will cover fundamental topics like Bitcoin basics, responsible investing strategies, and the practical uses of stablecoins in daily transactions. The focus will be on clear explanations and practical examples, enabling participants to grasp the workings of digital assets without encouraging speculative trading.
The initiative aims to engage over 10,000 individuals through various formats, including seminars, roadshows, and online educational content. Bitqik emphasizes its commitment to helping users make informed decisions, highlighting both the benefits and risks associated with digital assets.
A significant portion of the program revolves around USDT, Tether”s U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoin. Educational materials will clarify the mechanics of stablecoins, the importance of price stability, and their applications for payments, savings, and transfers. Bitqik notes that stablecoins are gaining traction in local digital finance, particularly for cross-border transactions.
The program aims to address common queries regarding trust and transparency in the crypto space. “Financial inclusion depends on understanding, not just access,” stated Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. He emphasized that community-level education is essential for empowering individuals to participate confidently in the digital economy.
Despite a pilot regulatory framework that limits cryptocurrency trading to licensed entities approved by the Bank of Laos, challenges persist in the region. The Financial Action Task Force raised concerns in 2023 about the inadequate oversight of crypto activities in Laos, indicating weaknesses in monitoring and control. Concurrently, local authorities plan to phase out cryptocurrency mining operations by early 2026, reallocating energy resources to data centers and other tech ventures.
In this context, educational efforts are viewed as crucial for minimizing misuses of digital assets and enhancing user understanding. The Laos initiative is part of similar educational campaigns launched by Tether in Thailand and various African markets. With a market capitalization of approximately $136 billion for USDT, Tether is increasingly linking its expansion to educational initiatives in emerging markets.
Virasack Viravong, CEO of Bitqik, reaffirmed that the partnership will continue through 2026, featuring regular public events. He noted that increased access to knowledge can help users in Laos approach digital assets with realistic expectations and improved risk awareness. Both companies aim to foster informed engagement in digital finance, aligned with local regulations and market dynamics.
