A partnership has been established by Bhutan with Binance Pay and DK Bank to introduce the world’s first national tourism payment system powered by cryptocurrency. Through this system, visitors are enabled to use digital assets for various expenses, including hotel stays and market transactions, thereby promoting financial inclusion and technological innovation.
Bhutan Becomes First Country to Fully Enable Tourism Sector with Cryptocurrency
In a groundbreaking initiative merging tourism with advanced technology, the world’s first national cryptocurrency payment system for travelers has been launched by Bhutan, utilizing the support of Binance Pay and DK Bank.
As stated in the official announcement, digital assets are now permitted to be used by visitors for payments throughout their entire tourism journey, including booking flights, obtaining visas, and purchasing local crafts in remote village markets.
More than 100 Bhutanese merchants have been integrated into the system, allowing real-time, frictionless transactions through the Binance app. Tourists are enabled to scan QR codes and make payments using over 100 supported cryptocurrencies, such as bitcoin, BNB, and USDC. Instant local settlement is facilitated by DK Bank, effectively removing common barriers like currency exchange complications and credit card limitations that frequently hinder international travel.
“This represents more than just a payment method; it stands as a pledge to innovation, inclusivity, and user convenience,” was stated by Damcho Rinzin, Director of Bhutan’s Department of Tourism.
Importantly, Bhutan’s small enterprises and rural sellers—many of whom previously had no access to digital payment systems—are being supported by the new system. With only a smartphone, they are now enabled to connect with a global network of customers.
A statement was made by Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, expressing excitement over the partnership with Bhutan, emphasizing that the initiative not only advances the application of cryptocurrencies in the travel sector but also establishes a precedent for how technology can connect cultures and economies.
This collaboration has been aligned with Bhutan’s wider objectives of promoting inclusive economic progress and safeguarding cultural heritage, while also demonstrating the practical role blockchain can play in fostering global accessibility.
