By Staff Writer

More of this topic

Posted inRetail

Cigarettes without digital tax stamps now officially illegal, FTA

Move aims to prevent tax evasion and protect consumer rights in UAE

By Staff Writer
The scheme is aimed at preventing tax evasion, protecting consumer rights and preserving the environment using advanced electronic control systems.
The scheme is aimed at preventing tax evasion, protecting consumer rights and preserving the environment using advanced electronic control systems.

The sale and possession of cigarettes which do not bear Digital Tax Stamps will be prohibited across the UAE, from today (August 1) according to a press statement by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).

Two types of stamps have been approved, including ‘Red’, which is placed on tobacco products’ packaging at local markets and duty-free arrival lounges; and ‘Green’, which is marked on tobacco products sold at duty-free departure lounges.

The move is part of the FTA’s ‘Marking Tobacco and Tobacco Products Scheme’, which was launched in early 2019 and aims to guarantee safe tobacco products in the UAE.

Its director-general Khalid Ali Al Bustani said it also aims to prevent tax evasion, protect consumer rights and preserve the environment using advanced electronic control systems.

The FTA has also urged consumers to check for Digital Tax Stamps on tobacco products and to inform authorities of any violations.

Follow us on

For all the latest business news from the UAE and Gulf countries, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.