Malta vs Vietnam
Crypto regulation comparison
Malta
Vietnam
Malta positioned itself as the 'Blockchain Island' with the 2018 Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) Act, one of the world's first comprehensive crypto regulatory frameworks. The MFSA licenses VFA service providers and oversees ICOs. Long-term crypto holdings are generally not subject to capital gains tax for individuals, while trading profits may be taxed as income.
Vietnam passed the Law on Digital Technology Industry in June 2025 (effective January 2026), officially recognizing crypto as legal virtual assets. However, the SBV still bans crypto as a payment method. The law requires AML/cybersecurity compliance for all crypto activities. Vietnam consistently ranks among the top globally in crypto adoption. Ministry of Finance to issue detailed guidance before 2026.
Key Points
- Virtual Financial Assets Act (2018) provides a comprehensive licensing framework
- MFSA licenses VFA exchanges, brokers, custodians, and portfolio managers
- Long-term crypto holdings generally not subject to capital gains tax for individuals
- Day trading profits may be taxed as business income at progressive rates up to 35%
- Transitioning to EU MiCA framework from December 2024
Key Points
- Law on Digital Technology Industry (June 2025) recognizes crypto as legal virtual assets
- SBV still bans crypto as payment method; not recognized as legal tender
- Vietnam ranks #1 globally in crypto adoption (Chainalysis 2023 index)
- AML and cybersecurity compliance required for all crypto trading activities
- Ministry of Finance to issue detailed crypto regulatory guidance before January 2026