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Thailand is set to revolutionize its tourism sector with the launch of the “TouristDigiPay” crypto payment sandbox on August 18, 2025, allowing foreign tourists to convert cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum into Thai baht for seamless electronic payments. Announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, this initiative aims to counter a 6% drop in tourist arrivals in 2025, particularly from China, by attracting tech-savvy travelers.
The program, overseen by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Bank of Thailand, operates within a regulatory sandbox with strict Know Your Customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) checks. Tourists must open accounts with SEC-regulated digital asset providers and Bank of Thailand-approved e-money platforms to exchange crypto for baht, which can be spent via QR code payments at merchants nationwide. Monthly spending limits are set at 50,000 baht for small vendors and 500,000 baht for businesses with card terminals, with no direct cash withdrawals allowed to prevent financial crimes.
Initially piloted in Phuket, the nationwide expansion follows positive feedback and aligns with Thailand’s pro-crypto policies, including a five-year capital gains tax exemption on digital assets starting January 2025. The Bank of Thailand’s “Tourist Wallet” enhances QR payment accessibility for tourists from countries without cross-border agreements.
Despite enthusiasm, Phuket’s tourism operators have raised concerns about limited awareness and potential money laundering risks, urging clearer regulations. By fostering digital innovation, Thailand aims to boost tourism revenue, strengthen its fintech leadership, and compete with crypto-friendly nations like Bhutan and the UAE. For updates, visit nationthailand.com or follow Thai SEC announcements.
