South Africa has delayed its retail CBDC while its central bank focuses on modernising payments and reviewing wholesale digital currency uses.
South Africa continues to review its digital currency plans as its central bank studies the best way to upgrade the national payment system.
The latest report shows a trend toward practical reforms before any retail CBDC launch.
South Africa considers a measured path for digital currency
The South African Reserve Bank released a paper that pointed out its view on a retail CBDC. It said South Africa does not need one in the short term. It also noted that the system is technically possible but offers little advantage at this stage.
🚨JUST IN: 🇿🇦South Africa’s central bank says a retail CBDC is not needed now.
Instead of digital rand, that bank will focus on wholesale crypto uses and improving cross-border payments. pic.twitter.com/oVlje4vjND
— Coin Bureau (@coinbureau) November 28, 2025
The bank said current upgrades carry more value. South Africa already runs programs to modernise payments and widen access for non-bank firms. These efforts are aimed at improving daily transactions and supporting a more open financial sector.
The report said the central bank will stay ready to act if demand changes. In the meantime, it plans to follow global trends and keep studying the progress of digital money in other regions.
South Africa places payment reform ahead of a retail CBDC
The bank explained that several gaps still exist in the national payment system. About 16%of adults remain unbanked and many rely on cash for most transactions. Because of this, South Africa wants to expand access through faster and cheaper digital services.
A retail CBDC would need to offer the same strengths as cash though. It would also need to support offline use, wide acceptance, simple interfaces and strong privacy. The bank said these standards must be met before a rollout can begin.
The SA Reserve Bank (SARB) has published a position paper and background note on the necessity of a retail central bank digital currency (CBDC) in South Africa. Drawing on years of research, technical experimentation and stakeholder engagement, the SARB finds that ‒ while a… pic.twitter.com/hCAMGAHOdP
— SA Reserve Bank (@SAReserveBank) November 27, 2025
Recent work in South Africa aims to update settlement tools and improve connectivity between financial players. The bank believes these upgrades can support a strong digital finance base.
It also said that a retail CBDC may fit into this system later when the benefits outweigh the costs.
The report also pointed out that many countries face slow adoption even after launching digital currencies. This experience has affected South Africa’s cautious view.
South Africa shifts its attention to wholesale CBDC research
The central bank plans to give more attention to more wholesale projects. Wholesale CBDC, for example, can support faster settlement between banks. It can also reduce delays across borders and improve transparency for high-value transactions.
South Africa has taken part in several international trials over the years.
These trials tested cross-border features and studied how digital settlement can lower friction. The bank said that these projects gave helpful insight into real-world performance.
South Africa hopes that its deeper research will support long-term reforms. It also wants to study how wholesale digital currency could work with planned upgrades to national payment networks.
Related Reading: South Africa Takes Bold Steps to Regulate Cross-Border Crypto Flows
South Africa warns about crypto and stablecoin risks
Another part of the paper pointed out a rise in concern about crypto assets. South Africa warned that crypto can create financial risks if left without oversight.
It said that crypto activity may be used to bypass Exchange Control Regulations. These rules govern the flow of money into and out of the country.
South Africa also raised concerns about stablecoins. The bank said they could influence payment behavior in ways that are hard to track. Because of this, the country wants to avoid gaps in regulation that could affect trust or raise costs for consumers.
Authorities are now working with the National Treasury on new rules.
They want a system that protects users and supports responsible innovation. The Financial Sector Conduct Authority has already started licensing crypto service providers as part of this plan.
In all, South Africa’s measured approach shows a desire to keep financial safety as a top priority. The central bank said it will review crypto markets often and adjust its approach when needed.
