Vietnam to Pilot Digital Asset Exchange in March

Vietnam is set to launch a pilot digital asset exchange this month, according to Deputy Finance Minister Nguyen Duc Chi. The state-licensed trading platform will be designed to ensure participant protection and regulatory oversight, marking a major step toward crypto adoption in the country.

The announcement comes as Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance and the State Bank finalize a framework for digital asset regulation. Chi confirmed that Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has mandated the release of this framework in March, signaling the government’s accelerated approach to crypto policy.

“The Ministry of Finance has been assigned to report to the government in March to issue a resolution allowing the pilot operation of digital currency and virtual currency exchanges,” Chi stated.

Crypto Regulation Tied to Economic Growth Goals

The initiative aligns with Directive No. 05, which aims to boost Vietnam’s economic growth to at least 8% by 2025. Originally scheduled for release in May, the framework has been fast-tracked to keep pace with global crypto trends and enhance financial innovation.

As part of this effort, Vietnamese enterprises may soon be allowed to issue virtual assets, enabling them to mobilize financial resources. Chi highlighted that this measure could help businesses tap into alternative funding sources, fostering economic development and investment opportunities.

Vietnam’s Crypto Boom and Fraud Concerns

Despite lacking an official regulatory framework, Vietnam ranks among the world’s top crypto adopters. However, the rise of crypto fraud cases has sparked calls for stronger regulations to protect investors.

The introduction of a legal framework could provide businesses greater access to financial resources, allowing them to secure capital from banks and attract institutional investments.

As the government moves toward crypto regulation, Vietnam positions itself as a key player in the global digital asset market—balancing innovation with investor protection.