Thailand to Let Tourists Use Digital Assets for Baht Payments

Thailand is set to introduce a new system enabling foreign tourists to convert digital assets into Thai baht for everyday payments in shops and services, in a move designed to boost the nation’s tourism industry.

According to the Vietnam News Agency, the scheme will operate within a regulatory sandbox overseen by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bank of Thailand (BOT) to ensure financial stability and compliance.

To participate, short-term visitors must open accounts with licensed digital asset providers and e-money operators, undergo strict identity verification, and use electronic payment methods such as QR codes. Any remaining funds can only be withdrawn upon account closure.

This initiative positions Thailand as one of the first countries in Southeast Asia to integrate digital assets into mainstream tourism payments, reflecting its strategy to attract high-spending visitors and adapt to evolving global financial trends.