Binance CEO touches down in Bhutan ahead of crypto partnership

It comes as the as the South Asian country embarks on becoming crypto-enabled

Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, the world’s leading blockchain ecosystem and cryptocurrency infrastructure provider, arrived in Bhutan last week to officially launch the Kingdom’s partnership with Binance Pay. 

Visitors to the Kingdom can now use cryptocurrency for nearly every aspect of their trip. 

The seems to be a positive step forward in Bhutan’s journey to become one of the most crypto-accessible destinations in the world. 

Joining Teng was a group of prominent international infl uencers from key global markets, invited to experience fi rsthand how Binance Pay is transforming the way travellers explore Bhutan. 

Throughout their journey, the group relied entirely on their Binance Pay wallets, embarking on curated itineraries that showcased the best of the Kingdom - from luxury lodges and family-run homestays to spiritual landmarks, bustling craft markets, cosy cafes, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. 

Since the partnership’s announcement in May 2025, Bhutan has seen a tenfold increase in crypto-enabled merchants nationwide with over 1,000 retailers participating today. 

Teng said: “This remarkable progress in such a short time refl ects Bhutan’s openness to innovation and its people’s readiness to embrace new possibilities. 

"This is not just about numbers; it’s about building an ecosystem where technology empowers people, connects communities, and enhances everyday experiences. Bhutan is showing the world how digital fi nance can enrich travel, simplify transactions, and build stronger connections.” 

The partnership further enforces Bhutan’s bold approach to digitalisation in tourism, blending technology with cultural authenticity to create seamless, future-ready travel experiences.

The initiative also supports Bhutan’s broader goals of financial inclusion, rural upliftment, and tourism diversifi cation, with the new Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Administrative Region playing a key role in enabling digital technologies that will support these goals.