Moldova Plans First Crypto Law by 2026 Under EU MiCA Rules

• Moldova will legalize crypto ownership and trading by 2026, but ban crypto payments and exclude digital assets as legal tender.

• The framework aligns with EU MiCA rules, involving the finance ministry, central bank, AML authority and market regulator.

• Crypto gains will face a 12% tax, while holdings remain untaxed, as authorities stress risk controls and consumer protection.

Moldova plans to introduce its first comprehensive cryptocurrency law by the end of 2026, government officials confirmed this week. Finance Minister Andrian Gavriliță disclosed the plan during a televised interview on TVR Moldova. The initiative aims to regulate crypto ownership and trading domestically while aligning national rules with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets framework.

Framework Development and EU Alignment

According to Andrian Gavriliță, Moldova is actively working with key regulators to draft the legislation. The Ministry of Finance leads the process alongside the National Bank of Moldova. The country’s financial markets regulator and Anti-Money Laundering authority are also involved.

Notably, the proposed law will legalize holding and trading cryptocurrencies within Moldova. However, it will not recognize digital assets as legal tender. Gavriliță stated that crypto payments will remain prohibited under the framework.

The plan aligns with Moldova’s commitments to the European Union despite not being an EU member. MiCA took effect across the EU on December 30, 2024. It established unified rules for crypto exchanges, custodians, stablecoins, and token issuers.

Gavriliță said the government cannot ban cryptocurrencies outright due to EU engagement. However, authorities aim to maintain strict oversight. Estonia’s crypto legislation serves as a reference point due to its regulatory clarity and structure.

Risk Warnings and Regulatory Scope

While advancing regulation, the government continues to warn about crypto risks. Gavriliță repeatedly described cryptocurrencies as speculative rather than traditional investments. Moldova’s central bank has previously cautioned about volatility, fraud, and money laundering concerns.

Under the draft framework, authorities will define which entities may operate crypto services. The rules will also outline who may convert digital assets into Moldovan lei or foreign currencies. Consumer protection and regulatory visibility remain core objectives.

Additionally, the Ministry of Finance outlined a tax approach. Holding cryptocurrency will not incur taxes. However, profits from crypto transactions will face a 12% tax, consistent with other income categories.

Broader European Regulatory Context

Moldova’s move follows increased regulatory scrutiny across Europe under MiCA. In September 2025, France joined Austria and Italy in urging ESMA to directly supervise major crypto firms. The push followed criticism of Malta’s crypto licensing practices.

ESMA later concluded that Malta’s regulator only partially met expectations in approving certain providers. Against this backdrop, Moldova’s approach reflects tighter alignment with EU oversight standards.

Authorities also cited security concerns tied to unregulated crypto use. Gavriliță referenced a recent investigation involving alleged illicit fund transfers into Moldova using crypto and hawala networks. The case underscored gaps the upcoming law aims to address.