Vietnam Legalizes Cryptocurrency: A New Era in Digital Innovation

Vietnam has taken a significant step towards embracing the digital economy by enacting its first standalone legal framework for digital technologies. The new Law on Digital Technology Industry, which comes into effect on January 1, 2026, provides legal recognition for cryptocurrency assets and sets the stage for comprehensive digital innovation across the nation. The law categorizes digital assets as either virtual or crypto assets, both of which are validated through encryption or digital technologies while excluding securities and digital fiat currencies. This move addresses Vietnam’s FATF gray list status, a significant economic pressure that prompted swift regulatory action from authorities.