Thailand Launches Cryptocurrency-Baht Exchange Service for Tourists
Date: 2025-08-18 Author: Oliver Abernathy Categories: IN WORLD
The Thai government has announced the launch of a program that will allow foreign tourists to exchange crypto assets directly for the national currency. This step was a response to the decline in the flow of guests from abroad, especially from China, which is traditionally one of the key markets for local tourism.
To participate in the program, travelers must register with electronic money and digital asset operators that have official permission from the Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). All clients are required to undergo the identification procedure (KYC), which complies with international anti-money laundering rules.
The country's central bank announced the development of a special electronic wallet for foreigners. With its help, it will be possible to make payments via QR codes, which will make the use of cryptocurrency as convenient as possible in everyday transactions. To ensure security, there are limits: up to 500,000 baht (about $15,000) per month for large merchants using POS terminals, and up to 50,000 baht (about $1,500) for small merchants. This mechanism should reduce the risk of fraud and ensure transparency of transactions.
It is worth noting that the country's authorities are consistently creating more favorable conditions for crypto market participants. Earlier, it was announced that traders are exempt from the 15 percent capital gains tax when selling digital assets through exchanges licensed in Thailand. This benefit will be valid until the end of 2029, which can significantly increase the attractiveness of the country for both investors and tourists who actively use cryptocurrencies.
This policy demonstrates Thailand's desire not only to support tourism, but also to secure its status as one of the regional centers for crypto innovations. The ability to use digital assets alongside traditional payment methods may become an additional incentive for travelers who choose countries with modern financial solutions.
Thus, the initiative combines two areas: tourism development and promotion of the digital economy. For tourists themselves, this means more freedom in payments and no need for traditional currency exchange, and for the state, increased competitiveness in the global tourism market.
