Key Takeaways
- Vietnam has fully legalized digital assets and offering crypto startups a legally recognized operating environment starting January 1, 2026.
- Crypto businesses in Vietnam can access major tax incentives, including a 10% corporate income tax rate for 15 years.
- The new law separates crypto assets from securities and fiat-backed tokens, reducing regulatory uncertainty.
- With over $105B in blockchain investment already flowing into Vietnam, the new law positions the country as a rising digital innovation hub for Web3, AI, and semiconductors.
As of June 2025, Vietnam has made a decisive move to become Southeast Asia’s next big crypto hub. On June 15, the country’s National Assembly passed the Law on Digital Technology Industry, a landmark bill that comprehensively legalizes digital assets and introduces sweeping incentives for tech startups, including those building in Web3.
This isn’t just a policy tweak, it’s a new playing field. For crypto entrepreneurs and investors eyeing Asia, Vietnam now offers a regulated, tax-incentivized, and growth-focused environment.
What Changed: Vietnam’s Law on Digital Technology Industry
The new law, which takes effect on January 1, 2026, does two major things:
- Legalizes digital assets under civil law
- Digital assets are now officially recognized as property.
- They include virtual assets used for investment and exchange, crypto assets based on blockchain encryption, and other tokenized digital products.
- These are not the same as securities or fiat-backed digital currencies, which are regulated separately.
- Creates massive tax and business incentives for digital tech companies
- This includes startups in blockchain, semiconductors, AI, data centers, and digital infrastructure.
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Key features of the law include:
- Legal recognition: Crypto assets are now recognized, ending years of regulatory ambiguity.
- Anti-money laundering (AML) compliance: The law aligns with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards to strengthen cybersecurity and prevent financial crimes.
- Licensing and oversight: The government will define business conditions, licensing requirements, and operational guidelines for crypto-related activities.
- Innovation support: Subsidies, tax exemptions, and workforce training programs are available for blockchain startups.
This framework ensures startups operate legally while benefiting from government-backed incentives. Moreover, it is explicitly structured to comply with FATF standards. It introduces global-standard AML/CFT protocols, regulatory oversight over crypto services, and a clear implementation timeline, positioning the country for removal from the FATF gray list by 2026.
Why Vietnam’s New Law Matters for Crypto Startups
Vietnam’s previous legal ambiguity drove many blockchain companies to set up shop in Singapore or Hong Kong. Now, with dedicated regulation and clear protections, Vietnam is inviting them home and new builders in.
The law also responds to the reality on the ground: Vietnam ranks #5 globally in crypto adoption, according to Chainalysis, with over $105 billion in blockchain-related investment flowing into the country during 2023–24. Much of it, however, stayed offshore due to lack of regulatory clarity.
That’s what this law aims to fix.
What Crypto Startups Can Get Under the New Law
Tax Benefits:
- Corporate income tax rate as low as 10% for 15 years
- Exemptions from import duties and land rental fees
- R&D tax deductions and accelerated depreciation for tech hardware
Special Incentives:
- Projects investing $80M+ in data centers or $160M+ in semiconductor plants get even more perks
- Five-year personal income tax exemption for foreign experts working on qualified projects
Legal Protections:
- Property rights for digital assets under civil law
- Recognition of ownership and transfer rights for blockchain-based assets
Market Positioning:
- Legal standing helps startups attract both venture capital and institutional partners
- Improved ability to operate domestically and scale regionally
Steps to Launch Your Crypto Startup in Vietnam
Ready to build your crypto startup in Vietnam? Follow these steps to get started:
1. Choose Your Business Model
Vietnam’s new law supports various crypto-related ventures, including:
Consider focusing on areas like NFT gaming or DeFi, as Vietnam’s blockchain game market is poised for significant growth.
2. Understand the Legal Requirements
While crypto is now legal, startups must comply with forthcoming regulations:
- Register your business: Incorporate your company in Vietnam to access local incentives. Consult with legal firms like Viet An Law or ASL LAW for guidance.
- Prepare for licensing: The government will issue decrees on licensing for exchanges and custodians. Stay updated through the Ministry of Finance or the Vietnam Blockchain Association.
- Implement AML measures: Ensure your platform complies with FATF-aligned anti-money laundering and cybersecurity standards.
- Monitor regulatory sandboxes: Participate in the proposed fintech sandbox to test your product without immediate compliance burdens.
3. Tap Into Government Incentives
The new law offers:
- Tax breaks: Up to 15 years of reduced corporate income tax for tech startups.
- R&D funding: Grants for blockchain and AI innovation projects.
- Workforce development: Subsidies for training programs to build a skilled tech team.
- Land-use benefits: Free or subsidized land leases for tech hubs.
Contact the Ministry of Planning and Investment or local authorities to access these benefits.
4. Build a Local Network
Vietnam’s crypto ecosystem is thriving, with 17 million crypto owners and high trading volumes.
- Join the Vietnam blockchain association: Connect with industry leaders and stay informed on regulatory updates.
- Partner with local talent: Collaborate with Vietnam’s tech-savvy workforce, supported by government training programs.
- Engage global exchanges: Platforms like Binance and Bybit operate in Vietnam and may offer technical support or partnerships.
5. Mitigate Risks
Despite the opportunities, challenges remain:
- Scams and fraud: High-profile scams like BitMiner and Million Smiles highlight the need for robust security. Implement KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols and educate users.
- Regulatory evolution: Stay adaptable as the government finalizes licensing and tax policies by 2026.
- Capital outflows: A poorly structured tax policy could drive investors to foreign exchanges. Advocate for reasonable regulations through industry associations.
A Model for the Region?
Vietnam isn’t just regulating crypto, it’s using it to power a broader digital tech agenda. With a target of 150,000 digital enterprises by 2035, the country is betting big on emerging technology.
Whether you’re building a decentralized exchange, a Web3 gaming platform, or tokenized supply chain tools, Vietnam’s legal clarity and tax support now make it a serious contender.
Conclusion
Crypto startups have long operated in legal limbo across much of Asia. Vietnam just changed that. As of June 2025, it offers legal status, tax incentives, and a strategic roadmap for blockchain-based businesses to operate and grow.
If your team is looking for a place to build legally, efficiently, and with government backing, Vietnam just made its pitch.
Start by consulting legal and tax experts, connecting with the Vietnam Blockchain Association, and exploring the upcoming regulatory sandbox. The time to build is now, Vietnam’s crypto revolution is just beginning.
FAQs
Can foreign founders and investors benefit from the new law?
Absolutely. Foreign experts on qualifying tech projects receive a five-year income tax exemption, and international startups can register in Vietnam to access tax incentives and legal protections.
What kind of crypto projects qualify for incentives?
Projects in blockchain infrastructure, tokenization, Web3 apps, decentralized finance (DeFi), and AI-integrated crypto systems are eligible, especially those making large investments or contributing to digital infrastructure.
When can startups begin setting up operations in Vietnam?
While the law takes effect in 2026, startups can begin registering entities, hiring talent, and applying for investment incentives now, laying the groundwork for full compliance by launch.
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