Vietnam has officially recognized crypto assets through a new law passed by the National Assembly on June 14, 2025. The Law on Digital Technology Industry lays the foundation for a regulated digital economy. Set to take effect on January 1, 2026, the law introduces legal definitions for digital assets, imposes anti-money laundering standards, and offers incentives for digital firms.
Vietnam’s goal is clear: to attract tech investment while cracking down on scams and strengthening oversight.
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New Law Splits into Two Categories
The newly passed law classifies digital assets into two separate groups: virtual assets and crypto assets. Virtual assets are primarily used for trading or investment purposes. Crypto assets, on the other hand, are defined as blockchain-based tokens such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. Both types are verified and transferred using digital technologies or encryption methods.
However, the law clearly states that digital securities, fiat-backed tokens, and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) are excluded from these definitions. This classification aims to avoid regulatory overlap while providing a legal identity for crypto assets, which have operated in a grey area in Vietnam until now.
The government is now responsible for issuing detailed sub-decrees that will explain how to regulate crypto activities. These sub-decrees are expected to include licensing requirements and operational standards for exchanges, custodians, wallets, and token issuers.
The law also brings digital assets into Vietnam’s civil code by recognizing them as property. This step gives holders of these assets legal protection, allowing them to pursue claims in court if needed.
Rules for Crypto Businesses to Follow
All crypto-related businesses will need to comply with several new rules once the law is in effect. Licensed exchanges must meet minimum capital requirements and maintain physical offices in Vietnam. These conditions aim to ensure operational transparency and accountability.
More detailed instructions will be published in upcoming sub-decrees, which are expected to clarify licensing, consumer protection mechanisms, and reporting duties. Businesses in the crypto space will be expected to adopt these once they are released.
Cybersecurity and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) standards are also a major part of the law. These rules are in line with international practices, especially those of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Vietnam Tightens Rules for Trust
Vietnam’s inclusion of these AML and cybersecurity measures suggests that the government is trying to create a safer environment for both users and the financial system. These standards will likely make it easier for users to trust local crypto businesses, which were previously unregulated.
Law enforcement activity in recent months also highlights the need for clear rules. In December 2024, Hanoi police stopped a large crypto fraud that had already cost victims around 30 billion Vietnamese dong, or $1.17 million. The scam, known as Million Smiles, used spiritual themes and false investment claims to lure victims.
In February 2025, police arrested four suspects connected to BitMiner, a fake mining operation pretending to be based in Dubai. The scheme fooled more than 200 people and caused losses of 4 billion dong, or around $157,300.
Vietnam’s Broader Strategy and Global Role
The law is not limited to regulation. It includes plans to set up regulatory sandboxes, where new technologies can be tested under supervision. This shows that Vietnam is open to experimentation while maintaining control over fast-changing digital sectors. The Vietnamese government said:
“With this move, Viet Nam has become the first country in the world to enact a standalone law specifically dedicated to digital technology industry.”
The government is planning heavy investment in R&D, infrastructure, and human capital. These actions align with its goal to become a major player in AI, Web3, and semiconductors by 2030. The new law is just one part of that larger plan.
