Oman is taking a new step in tax regulation by enforcing digital tax stamps on excise goods starting June 1, 2025. This move ensures that all imported excise products meet tax requirements before entering the country. It also aims to prevent fraud and enhance consumer safety.
The government introduced excise tax in June 2019 and has implemented it in phases. The upcoming requirement for digital tax stamps marks the third stage of this system. Products such as soft drinks, energy drinks, and tobacco derivatives must now include these stamps. The rule, however, does not apply to sweetened beverages.
Authorities will use digital tax stamps to electronically track excise goods from production to final sale. This method will help ensure tax compliance, prevent counterfeit products, and improve tax collection.
Oman’s Tax Authority has emphasized that this initiative plays a key role in tax enforcement. It helps protect consumers from low-quality goods while preventing illegal sales. Tracking goods digitally ensures that only authorized productsreach the market.
Saeed bin Ahmed Al Shanfari, Director General of Taxation, highlighted that this system strengthens tax revenue collection and prevents tax evasion. It also supports fair business practices by ensuring that all businesses follow the same tax rules.
Oman applies excise taxes on various products to control consumption and revenue collection. The current tax rates include:
• 100% tax on tobacco, alcohol, pork products, and energy drinks.
• 50% tax on sugar-sweetened beverages and carbonated drinks.
By enforcing digital tax stamps, Oman aims to create a fair and transparent market. These efforts will ensure that only compliant goods enter the country while strengthening the tax system.
