Thailand has launched a digital asset sandbox to attract high-spending, tech-savvy tourists by enabling seamless cryptocurrency payments. The initiative lets foreign visitors convert digital assets to Thai baht and spend them using local e-money platforms.

The Securities and Exchange Commission, the Bank of Thailand, and other agencies oversee the regulatory sandbox. It aims to simplify payments from street vendors to luxury retailers, eliminating currency conversion friction and card fees.

Authorities plan to focus on merchant education, compliance, and cybersecurity to support the programme's success.

The move aligns with Thailand's broader strategy to become a regional digital finance and blockchain innovation hub. Recent policies include a five-year capital gains tax exemption on crypto sales through local exchanges.

The sandbox could attract fintech firms and blockchain events, signalling Thailand's ambition to lead in digital asset adoption while maintaining regulatory safeguards.