Tether has partnered with the Government of Georgia to launch GEL₮, a stablecoin tied to the Georgian Lari, in a move to bring the national currency onto blockchain payment rails. The project places Georgia among the early adopters of government-linked digital currency systems as countries look for faster and cheaper cross-border payment options.
In an announcement, Tether said the stablecoin will support quicker settlements, lower transaction costs, and programmable financial services.The country aims to modernize payments and improve access to digital financial infrastructure.
The deal also highlights Tether’s expanding role in global payments as stablecoins gain wider adoption. USD₮, its flagship token, now approaches a $190 billion market value, according to DeFiLlama data, with trading volumes that often surpass those of major traditional payment networks.
Georgia builds stablecoin regulatory framework
Georgia spent several years building rules for digital assets before approving the GEL₮ project. The National Bank of Georgia created a framework covering reserves, redemption rights, issuer oversight, and anti-money laundering compliance. Moreover, lawmakers aligned parts of the system with emerging US stablecoin regulations, including the GENIUS Act.
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino welcomed the regulatory approach during the announcement. “Stablecoins are no longer a niche financial instrument,” Ardoino said. “They are becoming part of the infrastructure layer for global finance.” As a result Georgia now positions itself as a regional hub linking traditional banking systems with blockchain-based payment networks.
Moreover, Georgian officials see the partnership as a way to strengthen fintech development and expand cross-border payment efficiency. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said, “Together with visionary partners like Tether, Georgia is laying the foundations for a more connected, transparent, and digitally empowered financial world.”
Tether accelerates global expansion strategy
Tether is expanding beyond stablecoin issuance into broader payments and financial infrastructure. The company recently filed seven trademark applications in South Korea, covering its corporate name and logo. The filings suggest possible plans to build a formal presence in one of Asia’s largest crypto markets, according to industry observers.
Meanwhile, commodity trader Trafigura partnered with Tether on a pilot project to test USDT payments for fuel purchases in El Salvador. The plan could allow customers to pay for petrol and other goods at Puma Energy stations using the stablecoin. However, the project still requires regulatory approval before any rollout.
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