Bolivia is about to take a bold step into the world of digital currencies. The Central Banks Bolivia is currently developing the virtual boliviano, a digital currency that should make it easier to make cross-border payments.
The announcement marks a notable change of direction for a country that has until recently been cautious about cryptocurrencies.
Edwin Rojas Ulo, president of the Central Bank of Bolivia, has confirmed that the design of the new digital currency is being developed in collaboration with international organizations. The introduction of the digital boliviano is scheduled for August 6, a date that coincides with the celebration of the bicentennial of Bolivian independence.
Although Rojas Ulo has released few technical details, he makes it clear that Bolivia is working closely with other central couches in the region that have launched or tested similar projects. The digital boliviano should not only contribute to the modernization of the financial system, but also reduce the dependence on the US dollar in international trade flows. This is essential for Bolivia, which is struggling with a shortage of foreign currency due to a strict exchange rate policy.
The arrival of the digital currency is part of a larger reform of Bolivia’s payments system. In recent months, the Central Bank has already taken several steps towards digital integration. For example, crypto transactions via traditional bank accounts have been allowed, which has led to a doubling of digital asset trading volumes within three months of lifting previous restrictions.
Furthermore, Bolivia recently legalized the use of stablecoins as an alternative to the US dollar in international transactions, such as energy imports, placing the country firmly within the regional trend of financial innovation.
According to Rojas Ulo, Bolivia is drawing inspiration from the experiences of other countries and central banks that have already launched or tested CBDCs (Central Bank Digital Currencies) when designing the digital boliviano. The hope is that the digital currency will not only make payment transactions more efficient, but will also free up foreign reserves. In this way, the digital boliviano will contribute to macroeconomic stability and growth in the long term.
Looking to the future, the question remains: will the digital Boliviano be the key to economic renewal?
What is the digital boliviano?
The digital boliviano is a new digital currency being developed by the Central Bank of Bolivia and is intended for cross-border payments.
When will the digital Boliviano be introduced?
The introduction is scheduled for August 6, to mark the bicentennial of Bolivian independence.
How has Bolivia prepared for the introduction of digital currencies?
Bolivia has already taken steps towards digital integration, such as allowing crypto transactions through traditional bank accounts and legalizing stablecoins as an alternative to the US dollar.