Vietnam Legalizes Crypto Assets, Aligns with FATF Standards for Enhanced AML/CFT Compliance

Vietnam has taken a significant step in regulating its cryptocurrency sector with the passage of the Law on Digital Technology Industry. This legislation aims to meet the standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and restore the country's international financial standing. The law introduces clear classifications for digital assets and mandates stringent compliance measures, addressing previous gaps in anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) frameworks. According to COINOTAG, Vietnam’s new law not only legalizes crypto assets but also empowers authorities with enhanced tools to combat digital asset fraud and foster innovation.

Vietnam’s new crypto law aligns with FATF standards, enhancing AML/CFT compliance and boosting investor confidence in its digital asset market. The law, effective from January 1, 2026, establishes a comprehensive framework that distinguishes between crypto assets and virtual assets, enabling tailored regulatory oversight. This regulatory clarity is designed to enhance transparency, reduce illicit financial activities, and create a more secure environment for investors and service providers alike. The law addresses critical FATF concerns related to AML and CFT, which previously led to Vietnam’s gray-listing in 2023.

The FATF is an intergovernmental body that sets global standards to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. Vietnam’s inclusion on the FATF gray list underscored deficiencies in its financial oversight, particularly concerning virtual asset service providers. The new law directly responds to these issues by instituting rigorous customer due diligence (CDD), transaction monitoring, and reporting requirements. This alignment not only facilitates Vietnam’s removal from the gray list but also positions the country as a credible participant in the global financial system, attracting foreign investment and fostering sustainable growth in its digital economy.

The law’s innovative approach includes several noteworthy provisions. These include clear differentiation between crypto assets (blockchain-based currencies like Bitcoin and Ether) and virtual assets (non-financial digital items), excluding CBDCs and securities to streamline regulatory focus. Additionally, the law mandates identity verification, transaction monitoring, and reporting duties for crypto exchanges and wallet providers to mitigate fraud and illicit activities. A regulatory sandbox is also established for testing blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi) innovations, encouraging technological advancement while managing risks. Furthermore, the law provides tax exemptions, grants, and visa facilitation aimed at nurturing startups and attracting foreign expertise to bolster Vietnam’s digital technology sector.

These measures collectively create a robust ecosystem that balances innovation with regulatory oversight, ensuring sustainable development of the crypto industry within international compliance frameworks. The law equips authorities with enhanced legal tools to combat digital asset fraud, a critical concern highlighted by recent high-profile scams. By instituting stringent AML/CFT protocols and fostering international cooperation, the legislation enables more effective investigation and prosecution of cross-border crypto crimes. This proactive stance not only protects investors but also strengthens Vietnam’s reputation as a secure and trustworthy jurisdiction for digital asset activities.

Beyond compliance, Vietnam’s law is a catalyst for digital innovation. It supports the government’s ambition to transform the country into a Southeast Asian digital technology hub by 2035. The law’s incentives for blockchain, AI, and semiconductor sectors, combined with workforce development initiatives, create a fertile environment for technological advancement. This strategic focus on innovation aligns with global trends and positions Vietnam to attract significant venture capital and international partnerships, fostering long-term economic resilience.

With the implementation of the Law on Digital Technology Industry and complementary AML reforms by the State Bank of Vietnam, the country is on a clear trajectory toward FATF delisting. This progress is expected to restore international confidence, facilitate greater access to global financial markets, and encourage the formalization of the crypto sector. Vietnam’s regulatory clarity and commitment to compliance serve as a model for emerging markets seeking to balance innovation with financial integrity. These reforms not only mitigate risks associated with digital asset fraud but also create a conducive environment for sustainable growth and investor confidence in the country’s burgeoning digital economy.