Russians Now Can Make Payments for Purchases in Vietnam Using QR Codes
In an effort to modernize their tourism industries, Russia and Thailand are introducing new digital payment services for tourists.
Russia is set to launch a service that allows tourists to pay for goods and services using QR codes. This service, yet to be named, will be available through the VTB mobile app. The service is expected to launch before the new year, making tourists' stays more comfortable, according to Konstantin Balduev, quoted by TASS.
Meanwhile, in Thailand, authorities are implementing new payment methods for foreign tourists. The innovative solution, named TouristDigipay, will replace the use of cash and credit cards by foreign tourists. The 18-month pilot program is set to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025.
In Russia, VTB and Vietnamese BIDV have created VRB, which handles all transactions in rubles and dong. VRB, the only bank in Vietnam that supports Mir cards, has a significant share in Russia-Vietnam trade turnover, accounting for around 40%.
Under the TouristDigipay program in Thailand, expenditures are limited to 500,000 baht per month. Digital assets cannot be used for direct payment; they will be converted into baht. Sellers in the TouristDigipay program will receive payments only in the national currency (baht).
The new Thai payment method will ease restrictions on converting digital assets into baht for foreigners, making transactions more convenient for tourists. However, the details of how this will be implemented are yet to be announced.
The Russian tourism industry's QR code payment service and the Thai TouristDigipay program are part of a broader trend towards digital payments in the tourism sector, aiming to provide a more seamless and efficient experience for tourists.
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