Visa, a world digital payments firm, in collaboration with Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) and fintech innovator Soft Space, have announced the expansion of the Tap to Pay initiative to two of Bangkok’s most iconic and high-traffic shopping destinations Chatuchak Weekend Market and Pratunam Market.
This strategic partnership aims to modernize payment acceptance for local merchants, enhances convenience for tourists, and unlocks greater spending potential to support Thailand’s economic growth, Visa said in a statement on Wednesday.
The initiative introduces a contactless payment solution that enables merchants to accept credit and debit card payments directly through their existing smartphones.
This offers a flexible and convenient option alongside EDC terminals, with no additional hardware required.
The initiative also supports the development of a modern digital economy and strengthens cross-border payment infrastructure.
By making it easier for tourists to spend, it helps increase tourism revenue and encourages higher spending per visitor, contributing to national economic growth.
“Visa is dedicated to advancing Thailand’s digital economy by making payments more inclusive, secure, and innovative,
“Over the past year, contactless payments in Thailand have surged, with more than 66 per cent of Visa transactions now taking place via contactless methods each month,” said Choenporn Sawasdivorn, Head of Client, Visa (Thailand).
According to him, this rapid growth is driven by strong adoption among small businesses from street food vendors to local shops who are utilizing Tap to Pay to attract more customers and expand their operations.
“By equipping merchants with modern payment solutions, Visa is not only enhancing the shopping experience for both tourists and locals, but also helping to build a more vibrant, resilient, and digitally connected economy across communities throughout Thailand,” he added.
Meanwhile, Thanawatn Kittisuwan, First Executive Vice President, Head of Digital Business and Payment SolutionsFunction, Siam Commercial Bank said this partnership makes a significant milestone, positioning SCB as the first bank in Thailand to enable merchants to offer Tap to Pay payment option via mobile devices.
“This initiative empowers merchants of all sizes, from bustling street stalls to established shops, with the tools they need to succeed in the digital age,
“By providing seamless and secure payment solutions, we are advancing our shared vision of economic growth and expanding opportunities for businesses across Thailand,” he added.
Joel Tay, Chief Executive Officer, Soft Space added that contactless payment acceptance, which was once costly and less accessible for Thai small businesses, is now affordable, enabling even the smallest businesses to accept cards alongside QR payments.
“The solution we’ve introduced with Visa and SCB empowers Thai consumers and tourists the freedom to choose a convenient, friction-free and cost-effective way to pay,” he added.
It is noted that the “Mae Manee Tap to Pay” initiative has been launched since one year ago.
Following its success in major cities, Visa and SCB have extended the Tap to Pay program into provincial areas and new retail categories, ensuring equitable access to digital payment tools across the country.
This expansion also highlights Visa, SCB, and Soft Space’s shared commitment to promoting digital innovation, financial inclusion, and sustainable economic development in Thailand’s most dynamic retail zones.