Bitcoin News Today: Thailand Launches TouristDigiPay Crypto-to-Baht Conversion Pilot

Thailand has launched a pilot program called TouristDigiPay, enabling international tourists to convert their cryptocurrencies into Thai baht through a regulated digital finance infrastructure. The initiative, introduced in late August 2025, is designed to integrate digital assets into the tourism economy, supporting economic growth while ensuring compliance and risk management [1].

Under the program, foreign visitors can convert supported cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) into Thai baht via licensed e-money service providers and digital asset operators. The conversion process requires tourists to complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) verification before proceeding, ensuring regulatory compliance [2]. To mitigate risks such as money laundering and financial instability, the initiative imposes a monthly cap of 550,000 baht per visitor [3].

The Thai government estimates that TouristDigiPay could inject over THB175 billion into the economy during its 18-month pilot phase [4]. This projection is based on anticipated increases in tourist spending, as the program addresses a key barrier for crypto-holding travelers: the lack of accessible ways to convert and use digital assets locally. By enabling seamless conversions, Thailand aims to attract a new demographic of digitally-oriented tourists who prefer non-traditional payment methods [5].

Operators participating in the initiative must hold licenses from Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission, ensuring a secure and transparent environment for transactions. The regulatory framework reflects a cautious yet forward-looking approach to integrating digital assets into the financial system while managing associated risks [6].

Analysts suggest that the program’s success will depend on factors such as user experience, including the speed and cost of conversions, and the willingness of local merchants to accept digital payments. While initial reports indicate strong momentum, the long-term impact remains uncertain. If the pilot proves effective, it could lead to a permanent expansion of crypto payment capabilities in Thailand’s tourism sector [7].

The launch of TouristDigiPay aligns with Thailand’s broader goals to position itself as a regional leader in digital finance innovation. By facilitating the use of cryptocurrencies among international visitors, the initiative not only promotes financial inclusion but also enhances the country’s appeal as a modern, tech-savvy destination.

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Source:

[1] Cointelegraph - Thailand to launch crypto payment sandbox for tourists (https://cointelegraph.com/news/thailand-plans-launch-crypto-payment-tourists)

[2] Bangkok Post - Bitcoin to baht: digital assets sandbox in offing for foreign tourists (https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3088916/bitcoin-to-baht-digital-assets-sandbox-in-offing-for-foreign-tourists)

[3] Thai Examiner - Thailand unveils Digital asset payment facility for tourists in test mode with big plans for the future (https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2025/08/19/thailand-unveils-digital-asset-payment-facility-for-tourists-in-test-mode-with-big-plans-for-the-future/)

[4] Nation Thailand - "TouristDigiPay" project aims to inject over THB175 billion into the economy (https://www.nationthailand.com/business/digital-assets/40054185)

[5] ICOBench.com - Thailand's New Digital Baht Gateway for Crypto Travelers (https://icobench.com/news/touristdigipay-thailands-new-digital-baht-gateway-for-crypto-travelers/)

[6] The Nation Thailand (Facebook post) - Under the new system, tourists will convert their cryptocurrencies into baht through digital asset operators regulated by Thailand's Securities and Exchange (https://www.facebook.com/TheNationThailand/posts/thailands-ministry-of-finance-has-announced-the-launch-of-a-groundbreaking-touri/1180****37433292/)

[7] The Block - Thailand rolls out pilot program for tourists to convert crypto (https://www.theblock.co/post/367207/thailand-crypto-baht-payment-pilot-foreign-tourists)