The new excise stamps bear a Quick Response Code that will enable distributors, retailers and consumers to authenticate the legitimacy of excisable products using a Smartphone/XINHUA-File
NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 5 – The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has introduced new generation excise stamps for all tobacco, wines, spirits, ready-to-drink alcoholic drinks and beers.
The new excise stamps bear a Quick Response Code that will enable distributors, retailers and consumers to authenticate the legitimacy of excisable products using a Smartphone.
The Commissioner Domestic Taxes Department, Benson Korongo, said the introduction of the app will enable the manufacturers, distributors, retailers and consumers verify and trace all excisable goods through the distribution chain.
“The verification of the new excise stamps using a Smartphone app will further enable consumers to verify that the products hence guaranteeing their safety. Through the system, we can ensure that counterfeit products that are harmful for consumers don’t flow through the distribution chain,” Korongo said.
The new excise stamps are part of the rollout of the Electronic Goods Management System (EGMS) which is aimed at combating illicit trade and sealing revenue leakage loopholes therefore enhancing compliance.
Old generation paper stamps affixed on wines, cigarettes, beers and spirituous drinks will however remain valid until all products on which they have been affixed are consumed.
“Following the strong revenue performance of the products managed under EGMS, the authority is in advanced consultations with relevant stakeholders for the roll out of the system on the remaining excisable goods,” Korongo said.
Excise revenue grew by 28 percent in the year 2015/16 over the collection in the year 2014/15. In the same period domestic excise revenue from products controlled under EGMS grew by 43 percent contributing an additional collection of Sh8 billion, the highest recorded annual growth in history.
The public has been advised to use the Smartphone application to verify and report any illicit products to the nearest KRA offices.
