TON Expands Cross-Chain Reach with LayerZero, Strengthening USDT Integration

The Open Network (TON) is making significant strides in cross-chain interoperability by integrating with LayerZero, a leading interoperability protocol. This move aims to link TON with over 100 blockchain networks, including Ethereum, Tron, and Solana, the TON Foundation announced on February 11.

The integration is particularly crucial for TON’s role in the Tether (USDT) ecosystem. By leveraging LayerZero’s messaging protocol, users can seamlessly bridge assets between TON and multiple blockchain networks. This expansion is backed by key partners such as USDT, synthetic stablecoin provider Ethena, and cross-chain bridge protocol Stargate.

With Stargate’s support, users can now transfer USDT from Ethereum, Tron, and other major blockchains directly to TON. The TON Foundation emphasized that this development represents the first instance of an interoperability protocol bringing high-profile applications like Stargate and Ethena to the TON ecosystem.

This is not TON’s first cross-chain initiative. The network has actively pursued blockchain connectivity, previously introducing the TON Application Chain (TAC) to facilitate interaction between TON and Ethereum’s developer ecosystem. However, the LayerZero integration marks a turning point by establishing TON as a major player in bridging the USDT ecosystem.

TON is poised to tap into the massive USDT supply across Ethereum and Tron, which collectively account for 96% of USDT’s circulating supply—totaling $136 billion. Since USDT launched on TON in April 2024, its presence has grown exponentially, surpassing $1 billion in circulating supply within just five months.

Currently, TON ranks as the fourth-largest blockchain for USDT, with $1.4 billion in circulation. The latest LayerZero integration is expected to further accelerate its growth and solidify its position in the multichain financial ecosystem.