Vietnam to Launch Digital Asset Exchange in International Financial Center

Vietnam is set to launch a pilot digital asset exchange within its newly established International Financial Center (IFC), signaling a strategic shift toward incorporating blockchain technology into its formal financial infrastructure. The pilot, backed by the Ministry of Finance, has received approval from the National Assembly and is currently undergoing final policy refinements for government submission in August 2025. Once operational, the exchange will facilitate the issuance, trading, and management of digital assets, with a particular emphasis on liquidity and cybersecurity [1].

Service providers will be granted autonomy in selecting which assets are listed, with a preference for those that demonstrate strong liquidity. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing Vietnam’s economic framework and fostering financial innovation. The use of blockchain as a foundational infrastructure element is a clear indication of the state’s recognition of the technology’s potential to streamline financial processes and enhance transparency [2].

The pilot is also expected to involve exploration of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) model by the State Bank of Vietnam. This move reflects a globally aligned strategy to regulate digital assets while maintaining economic stability. Analysts suggest that the pilot could stimulate investment and encourage technological development in Vietnam’s fintech sector, although the government has simultaneously warned of risks associated with speculative and unregulated virtual tokens [2].

The IFC, where the pilot will be based, is being developed as a hub to attract international investment and promote innovation. While no official launch date has been announced, some reports indicate that the exchange may begin operations as early as late 2023. The government has also hinted at allowing multiple exchanges under the pilot, suggesting a strategy to encourage healthy competition while retaining regulatory control [9].

Vietnam’s initiative aligns with broader global trends in digital asset regulation and is expected to provide clarity for investors and market participants. The pilot could serve as a regulatory model for other emerging markets in Southeast Asia, potentially influencing regional approaches to digital finance and blockchain integration [8].

Sources:

[1] Vietnam Approves IFC for Cryptocurrency Trading Pilot (https://www.ainvest.com/news/vietnam-approves-ifc-cryptocurrency-trading-pilot-2508/)

[2] Vietnam will pilot a digital asset exchange at ... (https://www.chaincatcher.com/en/article/2196966)

[8] Vietnam to Pilot Digital Asset Exchange in New Financial ... (https://coincu.com/news/vietnam-digital-asset-exchange-pilot/)

[9] Vietnam Investment Review - VIR (https://vir.com.vn/)