Thailand Unlocks Crypto Payments for Tourists Without Impacting Local Currency

Thailand is positioning itself as a crypto-friendly destination with a new initiative to allow tourists to spend cryptocurrencies during their visits. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced the plan at a May 26 investment seminar in Bangkok, emphasizing that the MOVE will not affect the local currency. Transactions will be seamless, with no indication to merchants that payments were made in crypto.

The regulatory revamp aims to attract more tourists by eliminating friction in digital asset spending. Foreign nationals have expressed strong support for the initiative, which aligns with Thailand’s broader strategy to modernize its financial sector. The government has yet to disclose which cryptocurrencies will be accepted or the technical implementation details.