Vietnam plans to launch its first regulated cryptocurrency market by Q3 2026, bringing digital asset trading under formal government oversight. The framework includes licensing for local exchange operators and new tax rules, including a proposed 0.1% transaction levy. All settlements must be conducted in Vietnamese dong, with cryptocurrencies not authorized for payment.
Deputy Finance Minister Nguyen Duc Chi announced the timeline at a forum on May 12. He stated the government is preparing rules with financial and security regulators.
Five companies linked to Techcombank, VPBank, LPBank, VIX Securities, and Sun Group passed the first stage for exchange licenses. This move aims to shift trading activity from grey channels to licensed platforms.
The draft regulatory framework proposes a 0.1% tax on every transaction conducted through licensed platforms. “The framework would be built around transparency, investor protection, and stronger finance management by regulators,” Chi said.
Corporate investors would pay a 20% tax on profits from crypto transactions after costs. Authorities have also expressed interest in exempting these transactions from value-added tax.
All trades and settlements on the regulated platforms must be conducted in Vietnamese dong. Cryptocurrencies will not be authorized as a form of payment within the country.
The plan supports Vietnam’s goal for its digital economy to contribute 30% of GDP by 2030. This follows a five-year pilot program for crypto trading introduced last year.
