Thailand Allows Tourists to Spend Cryptocurrency
27 May, 2025 ● Crypto News
Thailand is preparing to allow tourists to spend cryptocurrency using credit card-linked platforms as part of its strategy to modernize the financial system and embrace digital assets.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced the plan during an investment seminar in Bangkok on May 26, according to local reports.
The Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Thailand are reviewing the initiative, which would let tourists link crypto holdings to credit cards for local purchases.
Merchants would receive Thai baht without knowing crypto was used.
The pilot is expected to launch after the necessary infrastructure and regulatory checks are complete.
Pichai noted that this approach could be implemented quickly in Thailand, as it avoids using the baht directly and reduces risks to the domestic currency.
Thailand is also planning to reform its financial laws.
Pichai said the government aims to unify the legal frameworks governing traditional capital markets and digital assets, which are currently regulated under separate laws.
The government is also reviewing outdated restrictions on institutional investors, such as life insurers and large funds that are limited to government bonds.
Planned reforms may allow these funds to access equities and private sector assets.
The Ministry of Finance is also considering updates to rules on treasury stocks and regulations around high-frequency trading to promote fairer market operations.
A draft law is being developed to expand the Thai Securities and Exchange Commission’s enforcement powers, allowing it to take major cases directly to prosecutors.
Pichai reiterated his support for digital assets, stressing the need for clear rules that encourage innovation while ensuring financial stability.
He highlighted the rollout of “G-Tokens,” a blockchain initiative designed to allow retail investors to buy government bonds in fractional units.
These tokens are expected to enhance returns for savers and boost the global profile of Thai sovereign debt.
The Ministry of Finance recently announced plans to issue $150 million in digital investment tokens for retail bond purchases.
Earlier this year, the Thai SEC also approved the use of stablecoins USDT and USDC for crypto trading, allowing them to be listed on regulated exchanges in the country.
Sources:
https://cointelegraph.com/news/thailand-tourists-crypto-credit-cards-regulatory-reform
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3035085/state-set-to-amend-investment-rules
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/digital-assets/40050484
