Vietnam Proposes 0.1% Tax on Cryptocurrency Trades

TLDR

• New 0.1% tax applies to all crypto asset transfers.
• Licensing requires 10 trillion VND minimum capital investment.
• Pilot program to test regulations starts September 2025.

Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance has proposed a new tax on cryptocurrency trades, treating digital assets like securities. This 0.1% personal income tax will apply to all crypto asset transfers made through licensed providers. The initiative is aimed at regulating the burgeoning cryptocurrency market in the country.

The proposal includes defining these crypto assets as digital tokens used for issuance, storage, and transfer, leveraging encryption techniques. The Ministry of Finance has circulated a draft circular detailing the tax framework, with public feedback being invited. Vietnam drafting circular for crypto asset tax regulations.

Licensing and Taxation Details for Crypto Exchanges

The new tax will be implemented for both domestic and foreign individual investors, while Value Added Tax (VAT) will be exempted. However, Vietnam-based firms will face a 20% corporate income tax on profits after costs. The State Securities Commission of Vietnam will manage license applications, beginning January 20, 2026.

Exchange licenses are subject to stringent criteria, including a minimum capital requirement of 10 trillion VND, which is approximately $408 million, and a 49% cap on foreign ownership. No applications have been received as of October 2025, indicating the high entry barriers.Vietnam to impose 0.1% tax on crypto asset transfers.

Impact on Crypto Assets and Trading Platforms

The tax encompasses all digital tokens verified via cryptography without specifying individual cryptocurrencies like BTC or ETH. It affects any trades conducted through licensed platforms within Vietnam. All transactions, including governance tokens and assets from DeFi protocols, are subject to taxation under this proposal.

The pilot program, set to commence in September 2025, is an immediate precursor to these changes. It aims to test the regulatory framework surrounding crypto asset trading. During this period, strict rules regarding capital and foreign ownership are expected to limit participation from potential applicants.Ministry suggests 0.1% tax on crypto asset trading activities.