The Royal Government of Bhutan has announced the launch of crypto payment system in the tourism sector through a landmark partnership with Binance Pay and DK Bank.
Bhutan is set to become the first sovereign country to officially integrate cryptocurrency into its national tourism policy.
The innovative mechanism will allow travellers with Binance accounts to experience truly cashless journeys.
Tourists can avail a range of tourism services, including flight and hotel tickets, visa and Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) fees, monument entry fees, and local shopping, using Binance Pay via static and dynamic QR code payments.
Crypto payments are automatically converted into Ngultrum (BTN), Bhutan’s fiat currency, ensuring vendors receive price-stable payouts.
According to Binance’s official statement, over 100 Bhutanese businesses have already adopted the platform, many of which are located in rural regions with limited access to credit card infrastructure.
The initiative utilizes QR code-based payments, eliminating the need for expensive card terminals and improving financial inclusion at scale.
The service supports more than 100 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, BNB, and USDC.
The system is expected to lower transaction costs for international travellers, ease foreign exchange friction, and allow Bhutanese merchants to tap into global digital finance and the $3 trillion cryptocurrency market.
Binance CEO Richard Teng said, “We are excited to partner with Bhutan as we are not only advancing the use of cryptocurrencies in travel but also setting a precedent for how technology can bridge cultures and economies.”
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“This is more than a payment solution — it’s a commitment to innovation, inclusion, and convenience,” said Damcho Rinzin, Director of the Department of Tourism, Bhutan.
The country is also well-known for its dynamic crypto mining industry. It holds 12,062 BTC worth $1.17 billion.
