Thailand is set to become one of the first countries in Southeast Asia to allow tourists to spend cryptocurrencies seamlessly through credit card-linked systems. The initiative, unveiled by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, marks a major step toward integrating digital assets into the nation’s financial ecosystem.

The system will enable foreign visitors to use crypto for everyday purchases by linking their wallets to credit cards. Merchants will receive Thai baht as usual, unaware that digital currencies were used. The Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Thailand are finalizing infrastructure and regulatory measures ahead of the official rollout.

Pichai emphasized that this model avoids direct use of the baht, minimizing potential impact on the national currency. He described the initiative as a low-risk, high-benefit solution that could make Thailand a more attractive destination for tech-savvy travelers and crypto holders.

At the same time, the government is preparing sweeping financial reforms. Officials are reviewing outdated laws that govern capital markets and institutional investments. Current regulations restrict major funds and insurers to government bonds. Proposed reforms would allow these institutions to invest more broadly in equities and private sector assets.

Thailand is also planning to regulate high-frequency trading and treasury stock practices more strictly. A draft law would strengthen the enforcement powers of the Securities and Exchange Commission, enabling it to take major cases directly to prosecutors.

Pichai reiterated his support for digital assets, including blockchain-based G-Tokens that will let retail investors buy fractional government bonds. The country also approved Tether’s USDt and Circle’s USDC for trading on licensed exchanges, signaling broader acceptance of stablecoins. With $150 million in tokenized government bonds set to launch, Thailand is positioning itself as a leader in digital finance innovation.