Skip to content

Almost Half of Blockchain Transaction Fees Occupied by Transferring Tether (USDT) Across Key Blockchain Platforms

Covering financial technology, cryptocurrencies, and blockchain developments across Africa

A substantial portion of blockchain transaction fees, approximately 40%, are allocated for...
A substantial portion of blockchain transaction fees, approximately 40%, are allocated for transferring Tether (USDT) tokens across nine significant blockchain networks.

Almost Half of Blockchain Transaction Fees Occupied by Transferring Tether (USDT) Across Key Blockchain Platforms

In the world of blockchain, USDT (Tether) has established a significant presence, accounting for approximately 40% of all on-chain transaction fees across nine major networks, including Ethereum, TRON, Solana, Polygon, Avalanche, BNB Chain, Arbitrum, TON, and Optimism.

This dominance suggests that USDT is deeply embedded in blockchain infrastructure, not just trading flows. Networks that support USDT for gas payments may gain an edge in adoption, especially in regions with limited token liquidity.

However, it's important to note that there is no direct data specifying which countries have the highest transaction fee shares for USDT beyond global blockchain usage. Fees are more influenced by the chosen blockchain network and payment method rather than country-specific factors. For instance, platforms like Bybit charge up to 1% for instant USDT purchases, while withdrawal fees vary by blockchain (Ethereum, Tron, BNB Chain), with Wise card payments adding around 2-3% processing fees.

In countries with weak fiat systems or high inflation, USDT provides a stable and convenient payment medium. Over half of the total USDT circulation and a third of the total stablecoin supply is on the TRON Network, reflecting its popularity in such regions. Millions of users, particularly in emerging markets, rely on USDT daily to hedge against inflation and volatile local currencies.

Stablecoins like USDT have become essential financial tools in emerging economies, as shown in previous Africa-focused coverage. USDT's growing role extends beyond being a trading asset, serving as a core utility token powering real-time value transfer on blockchains globally.

As reliance on USDT grows, so does regulatory attention, especially regarding transparency, reserves, and decentralized risk. Tether has transitioned to USDTo standard for cross-chain stablecoin transfers and has overhauled its stablecoin infrastructure on Arbitrum, as per another related article.

USDT is not only used for remittances, P2P trading, and merchant payments in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana, but also how Nigerian fintech firms and mobile-money platforms have begun integrating USDT into their offerings. Stablecoin adoption, especially USDT, is accelerating across African markets, where high inflation and limited access to traditional banking systems push users toward digital alternatives.

As of August 5, 2025, USDT maintains a leading share of 61% of total stablecoin supply, with a circulating supply exceeding $163 billion. USDT's widespread adoption is reaffirmed in Paolo Ardoino's announcement, highlighting its pivotal role in the blockchain ecosystem.

In conclusion, USDT's dominance in transaction fees and its widespread adoption across various regions underscores its importance as a stable and convenient digital asset in the global financial landscape.

Read also: