The Republic of Moldova is preparing to introduce its first comprehensive cryptocurrency regulatory framework in 2026, aligning national rules with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. The move, announced by Finance Minister Andrian Gavriliță, will legalize the holding and trading of cryptocurrencies for citizens while excluding them from legal tender status due to concerns about volatility and money-laundering risks.
As a candidate for European Union membership, Moldova’s forthcoming legislation aims to harmonize the country’s digital asset rules with EU standards, even though the nation is not yet an EU member. The draft law is being developed in cooperation with key bodies including the Finance Ministry, the National Bank of Moldova, the National Commission for Financial Markets, and the Anti-Money Laundering authority.
MiCA-Aligned Framework to Legalize Crypto Ownership and Trading
Under the planned legislation, Moldovan residents will be allowed to hold, trade, and convert cryptocurrencies, but cryptocurrencies will not be recognized as legal tender for buying goods and services within the country. The Moldovan leu will remain the sole legal currency for payments.
Gavriliță emphasized that outright prohibition of decentralized digital assets is neither feasible nor in citizens’ long-term interests. Instead, the government seeks to regulate the sector with clarity and safeguards, reducing legal ambiguity and helping protect users.
Draft legislation is expected to include licensing requirements for service providers, compliance standards for digital asset service providers (CASPs), and clearly defined anti-money-laundering (AML) norms modeled on MiCA principles.
Taxation and Risk Management Measures
The proposed regulatory structure will also introduce a tax regime for crypto transactions. Under current proposals, holding cryptocurrencies will not be taxed, but profits from trading and converting digital assets will face income tax, similar to other income sources.
Government officials have noted that clear crypto oversight is also a national security priority, citing concerns about illicit financial flows and fraud that may exploit the absence of a formal legal framework.
Context: EU Integration and Regulatory Alignment
Moldova’s move toward MiCA-aligned regulation reflects its broader European integration efforts. As the country advances on its EU accession path, aligning financial market infrastructure and legal frameworks with EU standards remains a priority. The MiCA regulation itself establishes common rules across EU member states for cryptocurrency service providers, issuers, and markets — ensuring consumer protection, transparency, and financial stability.
While MiCA came into effect for crypto-asset service providers in the EU at the end of 2024, member states and EU candidates continue adapting their own systems to meet these standards. Moldova’s regulatory initiative aims to create a secure, transparent environment for crypto innovation alongside robust AML protections.
Industry and Regulatory Impact
Experts say Moldova’s proactive approach could attract regulated crypto businesses and investment if implemented effectively, offering clarity for domestic traders and potential foreign participants. However, the success of this framework will depend on the depth of compliance requirements, enforcement capabilities, and how closely they mirror international standards.
Officials are expected to publish the full draft law for public consultation and review as part of the legislative process leading up to its planned 2026 rollout.
What This Means for Citizens and Crypto Users
- Ownership & Trading Allowed: Citizens can legally hold, trade, and convert crypto assets.
- Not Legal Tender: Cryptocurrencies will not be accepted as official payments within the country.
- Tax on Gains: Profits from crypto transactions will be taxed.
- Stronger AML Protections: New rules aim to reduce illicit financial activity tied to crypto.
Y5QVXGDY
