Bahrain's Authority NBR announces final phase of Digital Stamp Scheme implementation

According to a recent press release, the NBR has announced that they are in the final phase of implementing the Digital Stamp Scheme. Starting from 24 December 2023, all specified tobacco products available in the local market must have valid digital stamps.

                     The National Bureau of Revenue has made a significant announcement about the impending final phase of the distinctive mark system, which involves the use of digital stamps on selected tobacco products. From December 24, 2023, specific tobacco items, including electrically heated tobacco coils (EHTP), crack, chopped, or pressed tobacco for pipes, dokha (dizziness tobacco), and cigarettes, are mandated to bear these digital stamps for possession, trading, supply, or sale in local markets.

 The Bureau urges importers and local traders to handle only those tobacco products that carry these digital stamps and to clear out any stock that lacks them before the December 24 deadline. After this phase, any tobacco product without a valid and activated digital stamp will need to be destroyed or taken out of the Kingdom of Bahrain to avoid penalties. Non-compliance will face strict monitoring and potential legal actions, including fines and criminal cases.

 The digital stamp system aims to regulate goods by embedding security features and codes on specific items, tracing them from manufacturing to consumption. This system effectively combats illicit trade and safeguards against unlicensed and counterfeit products.

 The system's first phase began with digital stamp purchase requests on May 14, 2023, followed by the second phase that banned the import of specified tobacco products without digital stamps from September 17, 2023.

 For inquiries or information about the digital stamp system, consumers and businesses are encouraged to contact customer service representatives via phone, email, or the National System for Suggestions and Complaints (Tawasul). Detailed information is also available on the National Bureau of Revenue's website, www.nbr.gov.bh.