Saudi Arabia vs Vietnam
Crypto regulation comparison
Saudi Arabia
Vietnam
Saudi Arabia has an ambiguous but generally restrictive approach to cryptocurrency. SAMA has not licensed any crypto exchanges, and financial institutions are warned against dealing in crypto. However, crypto is not explicitly banned by law, and Saudi Arabia has participated in blockchain initiatives (Project Aber with the UAE central bank). No personal income or capital gains tax exists in Saudi Arabia.
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
- SAMA has not authorized or licensed any cryptocurrency exchanges
- Financial institutions warned against crypto transactions
- Crypto not explicitly banned but not regulated; exists in a legal gray area
- No personal income or capital gains tax in Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Arabia participated in CBDC experiments (Project Aber with UAE)
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