Moldova Plans Crypto Law By 2026 In Line With EU MiCA Framework

TLDR

• Moldova plans its first crypto legislation aligned with EU MiCA by the end of 2026.
• The law will allow citizens to hold and trade crypto but not use it for payments.
• Authorities warn crypto is speculative but affirm the right to operate assets.
• The draft will be developed with Moldova’s central bank and AML authority.

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Moldova’s Ministry of Finance has announced plans to introduce the country’s first comprehensive cryptocurrency law by the end of 2026. This step aims to align Moldova’s regulatory approach with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), which came into effect in December 2024.

Finance Minister Andrian Gavrilita confirmed the government’s intention in an interview with state broadcaster TVR Moldova. He explained that while the proposed law would allow Moldovan citizens to hold and trade cryptocurrencies, it would not permit the use of digital assets for domestic payments.

Crypto Trading to Be Legalized but Not for Payments

Minister Gavrilita stated that the law would grant citizens the legal right to operate cryptocurrencies within the country. However, the upcoming legislation will exclude any recognition of digital assets as a form of payment.

“We have the responsibility to regulate them, and it will be the right of citizens to hold these currencies,” he said. Gavrilita also clarified that cryptocurrency will remain classified as a speculative asset and not as legal tender in Moldova.

Authorities have previously issued warnings about the risks related to cryptocurrencies, such as volatility and potential use in money laundering. This new legislative move reflects a shift toward structured regulation instead of prohibition.

Draft Legislation to Follow MiCA and EU Best Practices

The draft will be prepared collaboratively by the Ministry of Finance, the National Bank of Moldova, the country’s financial markets regulator, and the Anti-Money Laundering authority. The minister noted that this collaboration ensures alignment with Moldova’s EU integration goals.

The EU’s MiCA regulation, fully applied to crypto-asset service providers since December 2024, serves as a foundation for Moldova’s planned law. The regulation aims to provide a legal framework for the crypto market across EU member states, promoting transparency and consumer protection.

Gavrilita said countries like Estonia offer helpful examples due to their “simplicity” in lawmaking, hinting at a more accessible legal structure for users and service providers alike.

Crypto Remains a Speculative Asset in Moldova

While Moldova will move forward with legalizing crypto holdings and transactions, Gavrilita was clear in stating that these assets are still speculative. “I avoid using the term investments when it comes to cryptocurrencies,” he said. “I see them more as a speculative domain.”

Despite this stance, the government has acknowledged the growing role of digital assets and affirmed that citizens have the right to use them. The upcoming law is part of Moldova’s broader effort to meet EU standards, as the country strengthens ties with European institutions.

Regional Moves Prompt Moldova’s Regulatory Shift

The move comes amid broader discussions within the EU about increasing oversight of crypto markets. Countries like France, Italy, and Austria have urged the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) to supervise major crypto firms. These calls followed criticism of regulatory practices in jurisdictions such as Malta.

Moldova’s decision to follow MiCA shows a commitment to clear crypto regulation, with a focus on anti-money laundering measures and financial oversight. By doing so, Moldova aims to create a more secure environment for its financial sector while joining the growing list of nations developing crypto legal frameworks.

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