Thailand is set to revolutionize the travel industry by launching ‘TouristDigiPay’ on August 18, 2025. This innovative scheme allows foreign tourists to seamlessly convert cryptocurrency into Thai baht for QR code payments, marking a significant step towards integrating Web3 technologies into everyday life. The program operates within a regulatory sandbox overseen by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bank of Thailand (BOT), ensuring a balance between innovation and compliance.
Driven by a decline in tourism, particularly a 20% drop in Chinese visitors this year, the Thai government aims to attract tech-savvy travelers. The program limits monthly spending to 50,000–500,000 baht, with strict KYC/AML checks implemented. This ensures compliance while mitigating risks associated with money laundering.
Key features include the ‘Tourist Wallet,’ developed by the BOT, which enables QR payments and potentially integrates with international cards in the future. Thailand’s initiative positions it as a leader in crypto tourism, surpassing even regions like Japan, where a 2022 pilot only achieved 2% merchant adoption.
The program could see a 10–15% increase in Web3 enthusiasts if merchants are effectively trained and onboard. Challenges remain such as cumbersome KYC processes or limited participation from merchants.
If successful, ‘TouristDigiPay’ could set a precedent for other nations, blending blockchain’s transparency with travel’s economic potential. For now, Thailand serves as a testbed for this exciting new development.