South African economist Dawie Roodt has criticized the National Treasury's proposed crypto regulations, warning they could drive users towards cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. Roodt argues that the regulations, which include new reporting requirements and potential asset seizure, are unenforceable and reflect an outdated attempt at state control. He believes that blockchain technology's ability to facilitate low-cost, cross-border transactions will render traditional exchange controls obsolete. The National Treasury defended the regulations on May 15, stating they do not intend to criminalize crypto possession or apply retrospectively. A draft manual on cross-border crypto transactions will be released for public comment, aiming to clarify upcoming rules. Roodt insists that unless South Africa dismantles its exchange controls, citizens will increasingly opt for decentralized financial systems.