National Focus

The Deputy Prime Minister urges to finalize the legal framework for managing virtual currencies

By An Nhien January 12, 2018 | 07:31 AM GMT+7

Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue has urged the Ministry of Justice to chair and coordinate with the State Bank to urgently research and finalize the legal framework for managing virtual currencies in Vietnam and report to the Prime Minister by January 30, 2018.

This is not the first time the Deputy Prime Minister has urged relevant agencies to finalize the legal framework for virtual currency management in Vietnam after the Prime Minister in August 2017 issued Decision No. 1255/QD-TTg approving the Proposal to establish a comprehensive legal framework for management of virtual property, virtual currencies and electronic money. This aims to effectively prevent, control the risks and protect legal rights of investors. 

When the Proposal was presented, there were various opinions on the management of these kinds of currencies in Vietnam’s market.

The State Bank confirmed that bitcoin and other similar virtual currencies are not currency and legal means of payment in Vietnam.

Accordingly, infringements will be subject to administrative sanctions of VND150 million to 200 million (US$6,615 to 8,820). At the same time, from January 01, 2018, the acts of issuing, providing, using illegal means of payment, including bitcoin and other similar virtual currency, may be subject to criminal prosecution.

However, notably, from January to mid-December 2017, Vietnam imported 2,470 bitcoin and litecoin mining machines which are made in China. According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, this item is not related to the use of virtual currency as a means of payment and not on the list of goods banned from import as stipulated in Decree No. 187/2013 of the Government.

Meanwhile, numerous data on visits to virtual currency websites in the world show that Vietnam is one of the countries visiting these websites most.

Recently, Bitconnect website, where Vietnam ranks the fourth in visiting, has been suspended by the Texas Securities Commission.

The suspension of this website may be due to fraudulent activity. These frauds include failing to disclose information to the head, the correct address, the business area, property and liability.

Resolution 68: A turning point in Vietnam's private sector policy

Resolution 68: A turning point in Vietnam's private sector policy

National Focus -  1 month

As Vietnam sets its sights on becoming a high-income country by 2045, Resolution 68 lays a crucial foundation. But turning vision into reality requires not only good policy - but also unwavering execution, mutual trust and national unity.

Vietnam plans upgrade of Gia Binh airport to dual-use international hub

Vietnam plans upgrade of Gia Binh airport to dual-use international hub

National Focus -  1 month

Vietnam plans to upgrade Gia Binh Airport in Bac Ninh province into a dual-use international airport to support both military and civilian operations, the government said on Friday.

Lives under the scorching sun: Outdoor workers racing against climate change

Lives under the scorching sun: Outdoor workers racing against climate change

National Focus -  4 month

Under unforgiving conditions, the outdoor workers - the backbone of urban economies - endure the harshest impacts of climate change while remaining overlooked by social safety nets. Their resilience and struggles highlight the urgent need for better protection in the face of rising temperatures and precarious livelihoods.

CEO Group chairman unveils guide to Vietnam real estate for foreigners

CEO Group chairman unveils guide to Vietnam real estate for foreigners

National Focus -  7 month

Doan Van Binh, Chairman of CEO Group and Vice President of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, introduced his latest book, “Vietnam Real Estate for Foreigners,” at a launch event in Hanoi on Friday.

Women leading the charge in Vietnam's green transition

Women leading the charge in Vietnam's green transition

National Focus -  7 month

Acting for increased women’s participation and leadership in climate action, Vietnam can accelerate a transition that is more inclusive, just, and impactful.

Steam for girls: A journey of passionate and creative girls

Steam for girls: A journey of passionate and creative girls

National Focus -  8 month

The "Steam for girls 2024" competition provides a creative platform for Steam and an opportunity for students to connect with peers from various regions within Vietnam and internationally.