- Thailand introduces TouristDigiPay to boost tourism using crypto.
- Pichai Chunhavajira leads the initiative.
- Impacts include improved tourism and fintech growth.
Thailand launched the TouristDigiPay program on August 18, 2025, allowing foreign tourists to convert major cryptocurrencies into Thai baht via regulated e-money institutions to boost tourism.
The initiative aims to rejuvenate Thailand’s tourism sector, enhancing appeal to crypto users, yet it operates within strict regulatory frameworks ensuring compliance and risk management.
On August 18, 2025, Thailand officially launched the TouristDigiPay initiative, allowing tourists to convert major cryptocurrencies into Thai baht. This program aims to stimulate the tourism sector amidst declining international arrivals.
The program is spearheaded by Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira with support from various government bodies, including the Ministry of Finance and the SEC Thailand. Their focus is on fintech advancement.
Immediate effects include potential increases in international tourism and utilization of cryptocurrency payment systems in Thailand. The program also serves as a step towards integrating digital financial tools.
The financial impact is expected to bolster tourism while adhering to strict regulatory compliance. Tourists can convert BTC and ETH, enhancing Thailand’s appeal to crypto users.
Running under a regulatory sandbox, the project has no direct grants but allows large and small merchants to handle significant monthly baht transactions.
Insights suggest that financial innovation through regulated frameworks may influence future regulatory approaches worldwide. Historical trends imply broader acceptance of crypto could lead to increased economic participation in the digital finance landscape. “The introduction of TouristDigiPay reflects our commitment to financial innovation and our focus on revitalizing the tourism sector by welcoming crypto-savvy travelers.” — Pichai Chunhavajira, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister of Thailand.
