Thailand Eyes Crypto-Linked Credit Cards and Merged Legislation
Thailand is exploring legislation to allow tourists and citizens to use digital assets via linked credit cards. The Ministry of Finance aims to streamline transactions, enabling sellers to receive payments in local currency without knowing if crypto was used. Discussions with the Bank of Thailand are underway to pilot this system. Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavajira announced plans to merge the legal frameworks for the capital and digital asset markets, facilitating easier fund transfers for investors. Thailand has been trialing crypto payments in regions like Phuket and Kalasin, where many businesses accept Bitcoin. These initiatives aim to boost tourism amid declining visitor numbers and a stronger local currency. Other Asian countries, like Bhutan, are also adopting crypto-friendly measures to enhance tourism.