US Designates Blockchain and Cryptocurrency as Critical National Security Infrastructure

The US government has recently formally included blockchain technology and cryptocurrency in its core national strategic system, emphasizing their key role in maintaining economic security and technological leadership. This move marks blockchain as no longer just a financial innovation tool, but a national strategic technology on par with artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

As the tokenization of US Treasury bonds, stablecoins, stocks, and various other assets accelerates, more and more core economic activities are migrating to blockchain networks. To address potential risks, the government has proposed establishing a "strategic crypto asset reserve" aimed at ensuring the resilience and continuity of critical networks and preventing external interference or systemic attacks.

The strategy revolves around six major policy pillars: guiding adversary behavior, upgrading government digital infrastructure, protecting critical networks, consolidating technological leadership, cultivating cybersecurity talent, and promoting international collaboration in developing technical standards. Among these, the government encourages in-depth cooperation with private enterprises and universities to build a digital security talent pool with practical capabilities, and advocates for an open, secure, and interoperable blockchain ecosystem globally. The report specifically points out the need to strengthen security protection for federal systems, supply chains, and underlying communication networks while encouraging technological innovation. Digital asset infrastructure, including cryptocurrencies, has been explicitly identified as part of the nation's economic lifeline. Industry experts point out that traditional financial institutions are gradually exploring how to access blockchain networks in a compliant and secure manner, reflecting market recognition of the technology's maturity. Overall, the strategy is not only intended to defend against potential cyber threats but also aims to ensure the long-term advantage of the United States in the global emerging technology competition by dominating technical standards.