TLDR
-
Thailand Expands Crypto Sandbox Nationwide for Tourist Baht Conversion
-
Tourists Can Now Convert Bitcoin, Ethereum to Baht Under New Thai Rules
-
Thailand Launches Regulated Crypto-to-Baht System for Visitors
-
New Thai Crypto Sandbox Lets Tourists Spend BTC & ETH via E-Money
-
Thailand Opens Crypto Conversion Sandbox to Boost Tourism Revenue
Thailand has introduced a nationwide crypto sandbox to allow foreign tourists to convert digital assets into baht for local use. This move expands on a previous initiative focused solely on Phuket and aims to enhance tourism revenue. The project is led by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bank of Thailand (BOT), backed by strong regulatory oversight.
🚨 THAILAND TO LAUNCH CRYPTO SANDBOX FOR TOURISTS
Visitors will be able to spend $BTC and crypto freely.
MEGA BULLISH!!! pic.twitter.com/ictn3zHWcd
— Kyle Chassé / DD🐸 (@kyle_chasse) July 17, 2025
This initiative forms part of a broader economic strategy to support digital finance and strengthen Thailand’s position as a fintech-friendly destination. Tourists will convert cryptocurrencies through licensed digital asset operators and spend the funds via regulated e-money platforms. Direct crypto payments remain prohibited, maintaining compliance and control over financial flows.
The sandbox is now in a public consultation phase, with the hearing process open until August 13. Licensed exchanges, brokers, and dealers can apply to participate for up to 18 months. Extensions will depend on performance, compliance, and further review by the SEC.
Bitcoin Eligible for Conversion in New Sandbox Framework
The sandbox permits conversion of Bitcoin into baht for use through digital wallets and QR code payments across Thailand. This allows tourists to utilize their digital assets while ensuring all spending occurs within a controlled system. The converted baht must be used via e-money services authorized by the Bank of Thailand.
Authorities have outlined strict entry rules for all participating operators, including licensing, anti-money laundering measures, and identity verification protocols. Spending limits are also set, with tourists allowed ฿50,000 monthly for general services and ฿500,000 for premium businesses. This tiered system ensures clear spending channels and limits misuse.
Officials emphasize the sandbox’s goal to provide a secure environment for digital asset use without compromising financial stability. Operators must integrate with approved platforms to offer seamless payment experiences to users. Enforcement will involve monitoring by multiple agencies, including the SEC and Anti-Money Laundering Office.
Ethereum Use Also Permitted Under Regulated Conditions
Ethereum joins Bitcoin among the permitted digital assets under the sandbox, enabling broader adoption for tech-savvy travelers. Ethereum must be converted to baht before use, ensuring all transactions remain within the approved e-money system. This promotes transparency and protects the payment infrastructure.
The regulatory framework includes real-time transaction monitoring to ensure compliance with national financial laws. Tourists must complete KYC processes before converting Ethereum or spending converted funds. These measures aim to prevent fraud while allowing flexible financial access.
Operators must follow specific guidelines on coin eligibility and transaction thresholds. Authorities have not published a full list of supported assets but have confirmed Bitcoin and Ethereum. Additional coins may be approved following further evaluations and public feedback.
Tourism Council Calls for Clearer Rules and Communication
Local tourism representatives have urged authorities to provide better information on the sandbox’s operation and goals. The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) noted that most Phuket stakeholders remain unaware of the ongoing public hearing. This lack of awareness could hinder adoption at the ground level.
Concerns have been raised over the risk of misuse, especially amid rising illegal business activities in tourist areas. Regulators have responded by reinforcing AML protocols and placing strict controls on digital asset use. Tourists must follow outlined spending caps and identity checks before accessing the system.
Tourism operators also seek clarity on which coins are approved and how the platform will integrate with existing payment systems. They want assurance that the framework is complete before implementation begins. The industry recognizes the project’s potential to boost digital tourism and national revenue.
