The UAE government introduced excise tax on carbonated drinks, tobacco products and energy drinks in 2017 and has decided to charge the same on e-cigarettes, e-liquids and several energy drinks and sweetened drinks, commencing from December 1, 2019.
The Federal Decree-Law No. 7 of 2017 on Excise Tax stipulates that businesses persons that are engaged in any of the below activities must register for tax:
Importing of excise goods
Production of excise goods
Releasing goods from an excise tax designated zone
Stockpiles of excise goods in certain cases
Warehouse keepers, in certain cases
Accordingly Importers, producers, stockpiles warehouse keepers, etc. of electronic smoking devices, liquids used in such devices and sweetened drinks need to register for excise tax system as soon as possible. Failure in registering within the specified time period can lead to fines and various other obstacles.
Stockpiles are that businesses that holds excise stock on which duty is not paid and it’s available for free circulation in UAE and intends to be sold in UAE and holds “Excess excise goods”. Tax Consulting firms in UAE helps businesses to understand the impact of Excise Tax and assist them to comply the Law.