Vietnam legalizes crypto and starts web3 offensive
Vietnam has adopted the Digital Technology Industry Act and creates clear rules for cryptocurrencies-an important step towards web3 future.
The Vietnamese National Assembly approves a law that legally anchored cryptocurrencies and digital assets for the first time. The Digital Technology Industry Act comes into force on January 1, 2026, defines “Virtual Assets” and “Crypto Assets” and does not consider it traditional financial instruments. The law relies on international standards for AML/KYCcreates regulatory clarity and heralds a new era for an emerging web3 ecosystem.
Legal clarity and sandbox approach
With the new legislation, Vietnam's crypto activities leave previous gray area. Digital assets are now officially regulated, which provides for clear license conditions for stock exchanges, wallets and token emitters.
The plan also includes a sandbox mechanism to enable controlled experiments in financial centers such as HO-Chi-Minh-Stadt and there. Reliable AML and cyber security guidelines should also strengthen Vietnam's position compared to FATF.
National digital strategy and innovation promotion
The law is part of a larger strategy that Vietnam wants to make the Web3 and Blockchain hub in Southeast Asia by 2030. Tax relief, subsidies and investments in AI, semiconductor and digital infrastructure are planned. The aim is to create 20 domestic blockchain brands and three test centers. At the same time, blockchain technologies in areas such as finance, logistics and education should be used-supported by state training and international cooperation.
The decision of Vietnam is not only observed in a regionally, but also internationally. At a time when many countries hesitate, Vietnam sends a clear signal: open technology paired with regulatory structure. For global crypto projects and investors, an attractive location in Southeast Asia is created-with legal certainty, growing talent pool and state support.
Integration with state digital currency in planning
In addition to the legalization of cryptocurrencies, Vietnam also checks the development of its own state -supported digital currency (CBDC). This could be embedded in the new regulatory framework in the long term and used together with private crypto assets in payment transactions. According to the law, the first pilot projects in cooperation with the State Bank of Vietnam have already been planned.
