Vietnam to Tax Crypto Like Stocks With 0.1% Trading Levy: Report

Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance is preparing to introduce a tax policy for cryptocurrency transactions that will align them with stock trading rules, according to a recent report. The proposed framework includes a 0.1% personal income tax on each transaction made through licensed service providers. The move mirrors the tax treatment of stock trades in the country and aims to bring crypto under formal regulatory oversight.

Under the draft, crypto transfers and trading are exempt from value-added tax but will be subject to a turnover-based tax for investors, regardless of residency status. The policy also provides a formal definition of crypto assets as digital items that rely on cryptographic or similar technologies for verification.

The proposed regulations come amid a broader five-year pilot program for a regulated crypto market launched in September 2025. However, as of October 6, 2025, no companies had applied to participate in the program, citing high capital requirements and strict eligibility conditions.

Why Did This Happen?

Vietnam's regulatory approach to crypto reflects a growing global trend of treating digital assets as financial instruments. The 0.1% tax rate aligns with the existing levy on stock trades, suggesting a balanced effort to integrate crypto into the country's financial system without disproportionately burdening investors.

The formal definition of crypto assets aims to provide clarity for both regulators and market participants. This definition emphasizes the use of cryptographic technology for verification, distinguishing crypto assets from traditional securities or currencies.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Market observers are monitoring the public consultation process for feedback on the proposed tax framework. The Ministry of Finance is currently accepting comments on the draft, which could influence the final version of the policy.

Additionally, the capital requirements for digital asset exchanges remain a key barrier to market entry. The 10 trillion Vietnamese dong ($408 million) threshold is significantly higher than requirements for commercial banks and most other industries. Analysts are assessing whether this level of capital will encourage innovation or deter new entrants.

What Could This Mean for Global Crypto Markets?

Vietnam's move to tax crypto transactions like stocks may influence regulatory approaches in other emerging markets. The alignment of crypto and stock tax structures could signal a shift toward treating digital assets as mainstream financial instruments.

Investors and firms in the crypto space are also watching for potential ripple effects in global markets. If Vietnam's model is adopted elsewhere, it could lead to a more standardized tax treatment of crypto across jurisdictions, which could impact market dynamics and investor behavior.

The draft policy also outlines distinct tax treatments for individuals and corporations. While individuals face a 0.1% tax rate, corporate investors are subject to a 20% tax on profits after expenses. These distinctions may shape how different types of market participants approach crypto trading and investment in Vietnam.

The regulatory developments in Vietnam come at a time of growing global interest in crypto payments and real-world usage. For instance, BitMart recently expanded its crypto payment card to 115 countries and introduced new benefits for 2026, highlighting the increasing role of digital assets in everyday transactions.

Despite the regulatory challenges, Vietnam’s government is also promoting innovation through its pilot program. The country aims to create a transparent and secure crypto market environment that protects both investors and service providers. As the program unfolds, the government will monitor compliance and market responses to ensure the effectiveness of its regulatory approach.