Vietnam Passes Digital Technology Industry Law, Becomes a Regulatory Pioneer for Digital Assets in Southeast Asia

Vietnam has marked a major milestone in its digital transformation journey. The National Assembly has officially passed the Digital Technology Industry Law, which legally recognizes and legitimizes cryptocurrency and virtual assets. The regulation will take effect on January 1, 2026, signaling a concrete step by Vietnam to build a structured legal framework that supports the growth of the Web3 and blockchain technology ecosystem.

According to CryptoNinjas, the law provides a strong legal foundation for the development of the digital asset industry, while also reinforcing Vietnam’s role on the global digital transformation map.

Government Mandate: Oversight and International Compliance

Under this law, the Vietnamese government is granted full authority to design a licensing system for crypto businesses, implement cybersecurity standards, and enforce Anti-Money Laundering (AML) principles as well as counter-terrorism financing measures. All these policies are aligned with the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an international body that monitors cross-border financial crimes.

As background, Vietnam has been on the FATF grey list since 2023 due to low compliance levels. With the implementation of this new law, the country aims to improve its compliance score and be removed from the global watchlist.

The First Progressive Regulation in Southeast Asia

This law is the first in Southeast Asia to explicitly govern the legality of crypto and virtual assets. It significantly transforms Vietnam’s image from an unregulated crypto market to a pioneering nation with progressive digital regulations in the region.

Strategic Impact on Vietnam’s Digital Economy

Attracting Investors
The legal certainty provided by the law is expected to attract more institutional investors, blockchain startups, and cryptocurrency trading platforms to operate legally in Vietnam.

Support for Technological Innovation
The regulation also offers fiscal incentives and policy support for the development of Web3, artificial intelligence (AI), the semiconductor industry, digital workforce training, and technology infrastructure.

Enhanced International Credibility
By adopting AML policies and aligning with FATF compliance standards, Vietnam stands a strong chance of exiting the international watchlist and strengthening its reputation as a nation that embraces innovation while adhering to regulation.

Toward a New Web3 Era in Southeast Asia

With the passage of the Digital Technology Industry Law, Vietnam ensures that digital assets are not only legally recognized but also governed within a clear, globally standardized regulatory framework. The law’s implementation in early 2026 is expected to usher in a new era of Web3 growth in Southeast Asia, further solidifying Vietnam’s position as a key player in the future technology industry.