UAE- September 24, 2021:

The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) announces the adoption of new features for ‘Digital Tax Stamps’ to be inserted on the packaging of all types of cigarettes, including electrically heated cigarettes and waterpipe tobacco (‘Mu’assel’) sold in local markets.

The new Stamps will replace the existing ones which are presently in use since January 1, 2019, as per Cabinet Decision No. (42) of 2018 on Marking Tobacco and Tobacco Products.

Decision No. (3) of 2021 for the new design will go into effect on October 1, 2021, to formally adopt the newly redesigned ‘Digital Tax Stamps’.

• The first category of Stamps goes into effect from October 1, 2021 where the Stamps with the red design will be placed on packaging of all types of cigarettes, while those with the purple design will be applied to the packaging of electrically heated cigarettes and waterpipe tobacco, which are authorized for trade in local markets and arrival halls at airports.
• The second category goes into effect January 1, 2022, where the Stamps with the green design would be placed on all cigarette packages, while those with a blue design would be applied to the packaging of electrically heated cigarettes and waterpipe tobacco, which are authorized for trade in duty-free shops in departure halls at airports.

The ‘Digital Tax Scheme for Tobacco and Tobacco Products’ aims to digitally track tobacco products from production and until they reach the end consumer to ensure compliance with the latest and best standards and ensure taxpayers pay the due Excise Tax. The redesign of the stamps is part of FTA continuous improvement plans that aim to enhance FTA procedures, protect consumers from commercial fraud, and combat tax evasion using advanced technological systems.

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