Thailand embraces crypto payments for tourists
Thailand’s tourism sector has faced challenges in recent years due to a sharp decline in Chinese visitors and a sluggish global recovery in travel. In response, the government is launching TouristDigiPay on 18 August 2025, a programme that enables foreign tourists to convert cryptocurrency into Thai Baht for local spending. The initiative aims to revitalise tourism through alternative payment options.
The launch of TouristDigiPay
The TouristDigiPay programme will be officially introduced at a press conference led by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. Senior officials from the Ministry of Finance, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports will also be present. Their involvement signals the government’s intent to implement the programme within a regulated and secure framework.
โครงการ TouristDigiPay เปิดตัวอย่างเป็นทางการแล้วครับ
TouristDigiPay จัดทำขึ้นมาเพื่ออำนวยความสะดวกและเพิ่มทางเลือกให้นักท่องเที่ยวต่างชาติสามารถแปลงสินทรัพย์ดิจิทัลที่ถือครองอยู่เป็น เงินบาท เพื่อนำไปใช้ชำระค่าสินค้าและบริการกับร้านค้าต่าง ๆ ในประเทศไทยได้อย่างสะดวกและปลอดภัย… pic.twitter.com/AeOL2QRHRp
— พิชัย ชุณหวชิร – Pichai Chunhavajira (@PichaiChun) August 18, 2025
How the programme works?
Tourists in Thailand will be able to use cryptocurrency for local spending through a structured process. First, they convert their digital assets such as Bitcoin or USDT into Thai Baht using local cryptocurrency exchanges. The converted funds are then stored in e-money wallets, which support QR code payments, a common method across Thailand.
All transactions will be processed through platforms regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and e-money providers approved by the Bank of Thailand. Tourists will not be spending cryptocurrency directly; instead, they will use Thai Baht for purchases after conversion.
Regulatory oversight
Thailand is taking a cautious approach to cryptocurrency-based travel payments. The Bank of Thailand will regulate e-money providers, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) will oversee bitcoin exchanges, and the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) will ensure that AML regulations are followed. Authorities will be able to oversee the TouristDigiPay programme’s deployment and manage any potential risks, as it will operate within a regulatory sandbox.
Eligibility and requirements
Not every traveller will have immediate access to the TouristDigiPay system. Only foreign visitors staying in Thailand temporarily will be eligible. Users must complete Know Your Customer (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) checks to use the service. Accounts must also be opened with legally authorised e-wallet and digital asset exchange companies. These conditions are in place to prevent misuse and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
Why cryptocurrency for tourism?
Cryptocurrency use in travel offers several practical advantages. Allowing visitors to exchange cryptocurrency for local currency eliminates the need for traditional foreign exchange, as many people already use digital assets for payments globally. Younger, tech-savvy tourists who prefer modern payment options will also find this approach appealing.
The plan presents Thailand with an opportunity to position itself as a country open to digital financial technologies and attract more foreign investment.
The economic context
Tourism contributes nearly 12 percent to Thailand’s GDP, making it a vital part of the economy. As of 10 August 2025, international arrivals stood at 20.2 million, a 6.9 percent decrease from the previous year. The most significant drop came from Chinese visitors, who declined by 33 percent in the first half of the year. Thailand’s reputation has been affected by safety concerns, such as the abduction of actor Wang Xing. In response, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has revised its 2025 foreign tourist forecast from 37 million to 33 million.
Government’s broader tourism strategy
Thailand is adopting a multi-pronged strategy to revive its tourism sector. Alongside introducing crypto-based payment systems, the government is focusing on attracting travellers from the Middle East and Southeast Asia, promoting digital upgrades in tourism services, and developing policies to maintain long-term competitiveness. TouristDigiPay is one component of this broader strategy.
Lessons from global examples
Thailand is not the first country to explore cryptocurrency’s potential in the travel industry. Bhutan has implemented a national cryptotourism system that accepts payments using various digital tokens via Binance Pay. Singapore has emerged as a crypto-friendly travel destination, with numerous establishments accepting digital currency.
El Salvador has adopted Bitcoin as legal tender and promotes its use through widespread adoption and the installation of Bitcoin ATMs. Thailand’s approach places it among these nations, while tailoring the system to suit its own regulatory and economic context.
The future of digital tourism payments
If the TouristDigiPay pilot proves successful, Thailand may expand it into a nationwide system. There is also potential for collaboration with other Southeast Asian countries to develop a regional crypto tourism network. This could transform how tourists pay for services across the region.
