#VietnamCryptoPolicy New Legal Recognition (June 14, 2025)

Vietnam’s National Assembly passed the Law on the Digital Technology Industry, officially bringing crypto under the legal umbrella—effective January 1, 2026 .

Digital asset classification:

Virtual assets: used for exchange or investment.

Crypto assets: encrypted digital assets supporting validation and ownership.

Both categories explicitly exclude securities, fiat-representative tokens, and traditional financial tools .

The law mandates cybersecurity, AML/CFT alignment with FATF standards, aiming to address Vietnam’s position on the FATF “gray list” since 2023 .

🔍 Context & Government Intent

Emerged from years of piecemeal planning (e.g., blockchain and digital tech drafts since 2017), and Prime Minister directives in early 2025 urging MOF and SBV to finalize frameworks .

Fits within the National Blockchain Strategy 2024–2030, emphasizing public‑sector use, innovation sandboxes, and regional leadership in blockchain .

📊 Crypto Adoption & Economic Strategy

Vietnam ranks among the top 5 globally by crypto adoption, previously topping Chainalysis charts in 2021–22, and sitting at #3–5 in recent years .

Use cases range from remittance and financial inclusion to speculative investment and digital rewards .

Regulators aim to unlock user protection, tax revenue, and institutional interest, while aligning Vietnam with global norms .

⚡ Key Implications & Watchpoints

🌟 Why This Matters

This marks a transition from gray-zone to legally structured for Vietnam’s crypto ecosystem.

Aligning with FATF benchmarks could improve global financial integration.

Vietnam is staking a claim to be a regional leader in responsible crypto innovation—potentially shaping Southeast Asian digital-asset norms.