Belarus to Launch CBDC by 2026 Amid Key Development Challenges

Belarus, a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, is planning to launch a central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital ruble, in the second half of 2026. According to reports, the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus is leading this initiative. The goal is to modernize the country’s financial system and create new, secure, and efficient digital asset payments.

Belarus to Ensure Smooth CBDC Launch

The report shows that businesses will be the first to use the digital ruble when it is fully launched. In 2027, government agencies and the general public will gain access to the currency. This will be a big step towards the widespread use of digital currency in Belarus.

Meanwhile, the head of the National Bank, Roman Golovchenko, has highlighted three key challenges that must be solved before the CBDC can be fully launched. 

First, the bank has to build a strong system for the digital ruble to circulate effectively. Second, the country plans to create in-house software to support the digital ruble instead of using solutions from outside. 

Finally, a clear set of rules and regulations must be developed, outlining the digital ruble’s usage. Golovchenko also stated that the roadmap is ambitious but realistic. He highlighted the need for cooperation among government agencies, banks, and technology providers to make the project successful.

CBDCs Get Widespread Adoption

Many countries around the world are exploring CBDCs. The Atlantic Council recently reported that 134 countries, representing 98% of global GDP, are considering or developing the program. Some of these countries are already in the advanced stages of planning.

In contrast, the U.S. and Norway are taking a more careful approach. President Donald Trump’s Executive Order, issued in January, protects citizens from the risks of CBDCs. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent shared the same sentiment. They said they do not see the need for a CBDC in the United States.

IMF Gives Framework for CBDC Adoption

Recall that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) took another step towards promoting CBDCs with the release of its guidance last year. 

As reported by TheCoinRise, the IMF issued a report titled “Central Bank Digital Currency Adoption Inclusive Strategies for Intermediaries and Users.” The report provides a comprehensive framework to accelerate the adoption of CBDCs globally.

Furthermore, the report emphasized that CBDCs’ success will rely heavily on well-thought-out strategic policies, benefiting end users and intermediaries. 

The introduced framework, known as REDI—Regulation, Education, Design, Deployment, and Incentives, lays out a structured roadmap to guide banks in promoting the adoption of digital currencies.