Thailand is launching a new crypto-to-baht payment system for tourists called "TouristDigiPay," starting on August 18, 2025. This initiative allows foreign visitors to convert their cryptocurrency into Thai baht for electronic payments, including QR code payments, to boost the tourism industry which has slowed down this year.
Tourists must open accounts with a regulated digital asset provider and an e-money service provider under the oversight of Thailand's Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bank of Thailand.
Users must pass strict Know Your Customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering checks.
The program will operate within a regulatory sandbox for monitoring and risk management, including spending limits to ensure financial stability.
Participating tourists can use the service only temporarily during their stay in Thailand.
Cash withdrawals are not allowed; withdrawals can only be made when closing accounts.
The system targets tourists from countries without existing cross-border QR payment agreements and aims to support cryptocurrencies approved by the SEC like Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins (USDT, USDC), and others.
Monthly spending limits are imposed: 500,000 baht for merchants with card terminals and 50,000 baht for smaller merchants.
Transactions at high-risk merchants for money laundering will be restricted.
The launch will be officially unveiled by Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, along with officials from the Finance Ministry, SEC, Anti-Money Laundering Office, and Ministry of Tourism and Sports. This program is part of broader efforts to revive inbound tourism amid a recent decline in visitors, especially from China.
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