Bangkok BTS Taps into EMV Contactless Success with 60% Growth
Bangkok's BTS system saw contactless card payments surge 60% after expanding EMV support across Blue and Purple Lines, ahead of a mandatory shift to contactless-only fares in January 2027.
Bangkok Mass Transit System (BEM) has reported a 60% increase in EMV Contactless card usage since launching full service on the Blue and Purple Lines, demonstrating strong passenger acceptance. Dr. Sombutr Kitchalapaksakul, BEM's Chief Executive Officer, stated that since June 1, all automated fare gates across stations now support EMV Contactless payments—including credit, debit, prepaid, and Mangmoom cards—streamlining travel and supporting government cost-of-living initiatives.
BEM's readiness is crucial for implementing the government's unified ticketing policy with fares of 17-45 baht per trip, launching January 1, 2027, requiring EMV Contactless payment exclusively. Beyond this, the company is preparing the Orange Line (East) for late-2027 launch, projected to handle 100,000 trips daily initially and 300,000 trips daily once the West Line opens in 2028. BEM is also acquiring 21 additional Blue Line trains to meet growing passenger demand from the expanding network.
The company is collaborating with the State Railway of Thailand and Krung Thai Bank to refine the EMV system, addressing limitations and ensuring smooth, efficient operations for all passengers.
