BANGKOK–The Bank of Thailand will introduce updated 50- and 100-baht banknotes, made from polymer, into general use from 21 November 2025. The polymer banknotes will be longer-lasting, easier to maintain and more cost-effective.
Bank of Thailand Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput shared the details at a press briefing, describing this as a step forward in currency improvement following the popular 20-baht polymer note released in March 2022.
These notes promise to be longer-lasting, more secure, and kinder to the environment, matching the BOT’s goal of a more sustainable and efficient financial system.
Polymer notes last longer and cost less to replace than traditional paper money. Governor Sethaput highlighted that the polymer used resists moisture, dirt, and day-to-day damage that often wears down ordinary notes in Thailand’s humid weather.
The 20-baht polymer note has shown it can stay in use for up to eight years, which is four times the lifespan of its paper version.
Keeping notes in use for longer means the BOT will need to print far fewer replacements each year, which could mean about 350 million fewer notes needing to be replaced. This saves money and reduces waste.
Public Response to the Polymer Banknotes
The new notes are also designed to discourage counterfeiting. Each includes transparent windows, raised numbers, and colour-changing ink. For people with vision impairments, the notes feature Braille and textured lines to help tell denominations apart.
The shift to polymer aligns with BOT’s green aims since these notes use fewer resources and are recyclable.
When the polymer 20-baht note arrived in 2022, it quickly became popular, especially in busy markets and areas with high humidity. People in Chiang Rai have given positive feedback on the new notes’ ability to survive spills and damp conditions.
One market trader mentioned that they no longer worry about their money getting wet, saying the new notes are easier to handle and do not tear like the old ones.
Many have echoed these views on social media. A post on Reddit described the relief of not worrying about soggy banknotes at the beach. Several compared these banknotes to Canada’s, noting their strength and durability. That said, concerns have been raised.
Those old enough to remember the short-lived 50-baht polymer note from 1997 recall it warping in high heat, such as when left in vehicles or near hot cooking areas. Some local traders expressed hope that the upgraded notes will better cope with everyday Thai conditions.
Polymer Banknotes Keeping the Same Design
The Bank of Thailand has responded, saying the new material has been tested under harsh conditions, including heat, and draws on successful examples from countries like Canada and Australia, which have used polymer notes for decades without large-scale issues.
The long life of the 20-baht note has boosted trust in the new designs.
The updated polymer notes keep the same design as the current paper versions, featuring King Maha Vajiralongkorn on the front and historical Thai kings on the back. From 21 November, these will be available at commercial banks, through specialized financial services, and via ATMs for the 100-baht note.
Existing 50- and 100-baht paper notes will stay valid, so people can use both old and new banknotes at the same time. With this rollout, Thailand aims for a more durable and secure form of cash.
People in Chiang Rai, including street vendors and those at the beach, welcome these changes if the new notes keep their shape in the heat. This move blends traditional design with practical improvements, making handling everyday cash more convenient for everyone.
