Thailand Pilots Crypto Payments in Tourism Industry

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Thailand has launched a pilot project enabling tourists to use cryptocurrency as a form of payment, marking a major step in the nation’s efforts to integrate digital assets into its $60 billion tourism industry.

The initiative, known as TouristDigiPay, allows foreign visitors to convert cryptocurrencies into Thai baht and make payments via QR codes. Authorities believe the system could enhance the country’s appeal to digital nomads, frequent travelers, and cryptocurrency users seeking destinations with modern payment options.

The project reflects Thailand’s ambition to remain competitive in the global tourism sector while also embracing financial technology. Tourism is one of the country’s largest revenue sources, and officials see digital payment solutions as a way to improve convenience and attract new demographics.

Industry observers note that such trials come at a time when cryptocurrency adoption continues to face mixed reactions worldwide. While some countries tighten regulatory oversight, others, like Thailand, are testing ways to merge blockchain-based finance with everyday transactions.

Beyond Thailand, the global cryptocurrency sector has seen several notable updates. WhiteRock Finance, a firm recently in the spotlight, is drawing attention after reports that a company engineer—previously rumored to be deceased—remains active online. This development comes as the firm’s founder faces legal challenges.

Meanwhile, Metaplanet Inc, a Japan-based company, has significantly expanded its Bitcoin reserves. The firm now holds 18,888 BTC, more than 18 times its debt level. Analysts view this move as a sign of strong investor confidence, despite Bitcoin experiencing price volatility in recent weeks.

In trading updates, Binance reported a slight uptick in the global cryptocurrency market capitalization, suggesting modest recovery momentum across digital assets. At the same time, Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) issued warnings against fraudulent schemes linked to stablecoin licensing. The regulator stressed the need for caution among investors as bad actors continue to exploit the sector’s growth.

Together, these developments highlight both opportunities and risks in the evolving crypto ecosystem. Thailand’s pilot program will serve as a test case for how tourism-focused economies can integrate digital payment infrastructure, while the broader industry continues to balance innovation with regulatory challenges.