Vietnam has adopted a law officially recognizing digital and cryptographic assets, making a decisive step towards the regulation and promotion of the cryptocurrency economy.
The law of the digital technology industry was adopted on June 14 and took effect on January 1, 2026. It describes a large framework to manage digital assets and promote blockchain innovation, according to local media.
This legal recognition occurs while Vietnam seeks to improve its position in the Financial Action Task Force classification, an international organization which establishes standards to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism. The country is designated on the list of FARF gray for insufficient anti-flowage controls, in particular concerning virtual assets.
Legislation classifies digital assets into two groups: virtual assets and cryptographic assets. While the two are not outside of traditional financial definitions such as digital titles or currencies of the central bank, cryptographic assets are classified by their use of encryption in the validation of creation and transfers.
The law grants the Vietnamese government authority to define specific regulatory conditions, in particular anti-flowage measures and cybersecurity standards aligned with international standards.
In addition to its regulatory function, the law introduces a multitude of incentives targeting blockchain startups and digital infrastructure developers. These include state subsidies, tax exemptions and visa advantages.
