Tether, together with the Georgian government, has announced the launch of the GEL₮ stablecoin pegged to the Georgian lari.
The project is one of the first initiatives to integrate a national currency into blockchain infrastructure.
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GEL₮ is designed to lower transaction costs, speed up settlements, and simplify cross-border payments. Tether noted that the stablecoin will also support the development of fintech services and programmable financial infrastructure in the country and the region.
Detailed information about GEL₮’s mechanism, launch timeline, and issuance features will be disclosed later.
How Is Crypto Regulation in Georgia?
The launch was made possible by the regulatory framework established by the National Bank of Georgia. In March 2026, the regulator approved rules for stablecoin issuance by virtual asset service providers. The document is partially based on the US GENIUS Act, Europe’s MiCA, and Dubai’s VARA rules.
Tether called Georgia’s regulation one of the most advanced in the region. The company emphasized that the new framework ensures reserve controls, AML requirements, and holder protection.
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Plans and Outlook
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that cooperation with Tether will help create a more interconnected, transparent, and digital financial world. National Bank President Natia Turnava noted that the regulator welcomes the partnership as part of its digital infrastructure development strategy.
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino emphasized that stablecoins are becoming part of the global financial infrastructure. According to him, Georgia’s regulatory clarity creates a foundation for real innovation.
Georgia previously signed a cooperation memorandum with the Hedera blockchain and launched a digital lari pilot with Ripple in 2023.
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