Asia shifts blockchain competition from TPS to usable block space for complex applications

Across Asia, the race for blockchain supremacy is no longer just about transactions per second. The focus has shifted toward creating usable, high-quality block space capable of supporting sophisticated applications—from DeFi and asset tokenization to verifiable computations. This move reflects a deeper understanding of what makes blockchains truly useful: not just speed, but security, interoperability, and the ability to handle complex logic at scale.

Why TPS stopped being the main measure

Raw throughput metrics like TPS only tell part of the story. They highlight short bursts of activity but fail to capture a network’s ability to store proofs, enable composability, or run multi-step computations. True utility lies in a blockchain’s support for advanced applications—not just how many simple transactions it can process.

What block space means and its components

Block space is the real estate of a blockchain—room for transactions, data, and proofs. Its value isn’t just in quantity, but in quality. Effective block space allows for:

• Parallel processing: Executing many operations at once without compromising security.

• Security and interoperability: Enabling trust across chains without centralized bridges.

• Complex computation: Supporting advanced dApps that require verified state changes or off-chain logic.

Competitive advantages of Asia

Asia is uniquely positioned to lead this new era. High crypto adoption, growing energy infrastructure, and supply chains hungry for transparency create ideal conditions for blockchains that prioritize utility over pure speed. Projects here are already focusing on real-world asset tokenization and enterprise solutions that demand integrity—not just velocity.

Risks and regulatory debates

With greater utility comes greater responsibility. Increased block space usage raises questions about resource allocation, governance, and unintended use cases. Regulators will play a key role—balancing innovation with protections for users and the stability of financial systems. Policies supporting interoperability and self-custody could help foster safe, open innovation.