Thailand SEC Proposes Crypto Sandbox for Tourism Sector, Seeks Public Feedback

Thailand's Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is advancing a regulatory sandbox initiative targeting the tourism industry, allowing foreign visitors to convert cryptocurrencies into Thai baht. The proposal, developed in collaboration with the Bank of Thailand, is now open for public consultation until August 2025.

The framework aims to stimulate economic growth by integrating digital assets into tourism spending, though direct crypto payments remain prohibited. Gulf Binance CEO Nirun Fuwattananukul notes the initiative could accelerate local crypto adoption by enabling indirect spending mechanisms.

This MOVE builds upon Thailand's existing digital asset regulations while implementing new risk controls. The SEC emphasizes the sandbox's role in balancing innovation with consumer protection as the nation positions itself as a regional crypto hub.