Thailand to Enable Crypto Spending via Credit Cards for Tourists

Thailand is advancing its digital economy strategy by allowing international tourists to spend cryptocurrencies through credit card-linked payment systems. Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira unveiled the initiative, which aims to integrate crypto into local commerce while shielding merchants from volatility by settling transactions in Thai baht.

The proposal reflects Bangkok’s broader push to modernize financial infrastructure and attract tech-savvy travelers. By leveraging existing payment rails, the system avoids disruptive overhauls while positioning Thailand as a regional leader in digital asset adoption.

Regulators are currently evaluating the mechanism, which would mark one of the first state-sanctioned implementations of crypto in mainstream tourism economies. The move comes as Southeast Asian nations increasingly compete to establish cryptocurrency hubs.