Kyrgyzstan Launches KGST Stablecoin on BNB Chain, Begins CBDC Pilot

  • Kyrgyzstan launched the KGST stablecoin, pegged 1:1 to the som, on BNB Chain on October 25, 2025. It is issued by the National Bank and registered in the State Register of Digital Assets.
  • President Sadyr Japarov announced the launch after a National Council meeting. The crypto committee plans to list KGST on global exchanges.

CBDC Pilot Underway

  • The National Bank started a three-phase pilot for a digital som Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
  • Phase one involves commercial banks for transfers.
  • Phase two will connect the Central Treasury for payment processing.
  • Phase three will test offline usage.
  • An evaluation in 2026 will decide on nationwide adoption.

Crypto Reserve Established

  • Kyrgyzstan set up a national cryptocurrency reserve that includes BNB.
  • Proposals for the reserve’s structure are expected within two months.
  • Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao confirmed his advisory role and BNB’s inclusion.
  • The reserve aims for financial stability and asset diversification, leveraging $10 billion in crypto volume from H1 2025.

Binance Partnership Expands

  • Binance signed an MoU for facilitating crypto payments and localized its app for Kyrgyz users.
  • It partnered with 10 universities via Binance Academy to enhance educational outreach.
  • Zhao's involvement in the council reinforces strategic alliances.
  • Kyrgyzstan's crypto exchange volume grew 47% from 2024, indicating progress towards digital finance leadership.