Moldova Moves Toward First Crypto Law Aligned With EU Rules

Moldova is preparing to take its first formal step toward regulating cryptocurrencies, aiming to introduce comprehensive legislation by the end of 2026.

The proposed framework would align Moldovan rules with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA).  Finance Minister Andrian Gavrilita said the government aims to provide legal certainty for citizens. However, he added that cryptocurrencies would continue to be kept on the margins of the country’s financial system.

Key Facts

• Moldova plans to adopt its first crypto law by the end of 2026, according to Finance Minister Andrian Gavrilita.
• The legislation will align with the EU Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) framework.
• The law will allow the ownership and trading of cryptocurrencies, but not their use as a means of payment.
• Drafting will involve the Finance Ministry, the National Bank of Moldova, the financial regulator, and the AML authority.
• Gavrilita described cryptocurrencies as speculative, speaking on TVR Moldova.

Government Sets Legal Direction for Crypto Assets

Speaking in an interview with state broadcaster TVR Moldova, Gavrilita said the government has already begun working with key institutions to draft the legislation. These include the Ministry of Finance, the National Bank of Moldova, the national financial markets regulator, and the anti-money laundering authority.

According to the minister, the law will permit citizens to hold and trade cryptocurrencies within a regulated framework. However, it will not extend to authorizing cryptocurrency payments in the country. Consequently, digital assets will not be granted legal tender status, a distinction Gavrilita said reflects a deliberately cautious approach.

“The state has an obligation to define clear boundaries and oversight mechanisms,” he said, adding that outright bans are neither practical nor effective. Instead, regulation serves as a framework for acknowledging crypto ownership while mitigating risks.

The planned bill would become Moldova’s first legislation dedicated specifically to cryptocurrencies. Its core focus will be legalizing ownership and exchange, while ensuring adequate supervision and financial controls. Gavrilita described cryptocurrencies as speculative rather than traditional investments, warning that they carry significant risk.

Central Bank Warnings and Risk Perspective

This stance underscores the longstanding position of Moldova’s central bank. The institution has consistently cautioned the public about the risks of price volatility and the potential for illicit financial activity associated with digital assets.

Gavrilita echoed those concerns, arguing that clear rules are preferable to restrictions. This approach allows citizens to participate with a better understanding of the risks involved.

EU Context Shapes Moldova’s Approach

Moldova’s approach is closely tied to its broader engagement with the European Union. The draft legislation is being shaped around MiCA, the EU’s first unified regulatory framework for crypto assets, which began applying to crypto-asset service providers at the end of 2024.

Gavrilita pointed to Estonia as a reference point, citing its relatively streamlined legislative structure. While he did not specify which elements Moldova might adopt, the comparison suggests a preference for clear and straightforward rules.

Wider European Regulatory Debate

The move comes as crypto regulation remains a topic of debate across Europe. In September 2025, France urged the European Securities and Markets Authority to assume direct supervision of major crypto firms. The call followed comparable requests from Austria and Italy.

These discussions intensified after ESMA raised concerns about Malta’s crypto licensing process. Specifically, the agency said in July that the country’s regulator had only partially met expectations when approving a service provider.

Although Moldova is not an EU member, developments within the bloc continue to shape its policy choices as it works toward adopting its first crypto law.