Kyrgyzstan is taking bold steps towards crypto adoption, with former Binance CEO Changpeng “CZ” Zhao proposing Bitcoin (BTC) and Binance Coin (BNB) as the country’s first national crypto reserves. The move marks a significant moment in the global acceptance of digital assets at the state level.

CZ Advises Kyrgyzstan on Crypto Strategy

On May 5, Zhao revealed via social media platform X that he had advised the Kyrgyz government to start its national crypto reserve with BTC and BNB. This recommendation comes as part of Zhao’s ongoing collaboration with Kyrgyzstan’s National Investment Agency (NIA), where he serves as an adviser on blockchain and cryptocurrency matters.

In April, Zhao confirmed that he has been both formally and informally assisting various governments in shaping their crypto frameworks. He described the advisory work as “extremely meaningful” and vital to fostering innovation in the space.

Binance Pay to Launch in Kyrgyzstan

The proposal coincides with an agreement between Binance and Kyrgyzstan to expand the country’s crypto infrastructure. On May 4, Binance signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the NIA to launch Binance Pay, a service that enables crypto payments across the nation. The agreement also includes provisions for crypto education through Binance Academy, which will work with local government agencies to promote blockchain literacy.

Binance CEO Richard Teng had previously stated that the exchange is working with several nations to explore the inclusion of crypto in national reserves. The partnership in Kyrgyzstan reflects this broader vision.

Crypto-Friendly Reforms Gain Momentum

Kyrgyzstan has been laying the groundwork to become a more crypto-friendly jurisdiction. On April 17, President Sadyr Zhaparov signed a law authorising the pilot phase of a central bank digital currency (CBDC), granting legal status to the digital version of the national currency.

In addition to exploring BTC and BNB reserves, Kyrgyzstan is reportedly planning to launch a gold-backed stablecoin called the Gold Dollar (USDKG). Pegged to the US dollar, the stablecoin would be supported by $500 million worth of gold from the country’s Ministry of Finance, aiming to bring stability and trust to digital financial instruments.

Could This Shape Global Crypto Adoption?

Zhao’s recommendation to include BTC and BNB in a national reserve sends a strong signal to the global crypto community. It suggests that crypto is no longer a domain solely for retail traders or tech companies—it is now a consideration for sovereign financial policy.

Adopting digital assets at the national level may also help hedge against inflation and traditional market volatility, while positioning early-adopting countries as pioneers in financial innovation. It could stimulate local blockchain ecosystems, encourage startups, and inspire more robust regulatory frameworks.

While some governments may remain cautious, Kyrgyzstan’s proactive stance may serve as a template for other developing economies looking to diversify their reserves and modernise their financial systems. If adopted widely, the inclusion of cryptocurrencies like BTC and BNB in national portfolios could reshape how countries prepare for the digital future.