BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Transport is moving forward with its common ticket policy, with the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) set to launch a full Account-Based Ticketing system on June 1. The upgrade aims to modernize the country’s rail network and enable passengers to use a single payment method across multiple public transportation systems.
The development follows the enactment of the Joint Ticketing System Management Act, which took effect on Dec. 28, 2025. The law allows commuters to use EMV, credit, or debit cards for seamless travel, reducing the need for separate tickets and simplifying fare payments across services.
The MRTA has already introduced EMV contactless payment on the Blue, Purple, Yellow, and Pink MRT lines. Passengers can tap credit cards, debit cards, or EMV-enabled Mangmoom cards at entry and exit gates without purchasing tokens or stored-value tickets. This rollout sets the stage for the transition to the new Account-Based Ticketing platform.
In cooperation with Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited, the MRTA will upgrade its existing fare collection system to support full ABT operations beginning June 1. Officials said the system will improve connectivity across transit networks and encourage broader adoption of digital payment options for daily travel. (NNT)
