KuCoin is expanding its operations into Thailand as part of a broader Southeast Asian market strategy. The exchange launched services on April 23rd through the former ERX Company Limited, now operating under KuCoin Thailand after securing regulatory approval from the country’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This move presents heightened competition within the Thai crypto landscape, where eight other SEC-licensed exchanges already operate. Bitkub Online, currently leading the market with daily transactions exceeding $70 million, faces strong competition from KuCoin Thailand which leverages its global platform experience to deliver localized services for Thai investors. KuCoin’s expansion comes amid regulatory uncertainties in Thailand. Though trading is permitted, payments using cryptocurrencies are banned since 2022, and the Thai central bank implemented a ban on crypto transactions for businesses in the country. While this remains a challenge, the Bank has shown support for a Bitcoin payment pilot program specifically for tourist visiting Phuket. Despite this project’s inactivity, KuCoin continues its expansion while navigating ongoing legal issues stemming from a lawsuit by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission for alleged violations of the Commodity Exchange Act.