The UAE illegal goods crackdown intensified in the first half of the year. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) seized more than 17.6 million items that broke excise rules. This strong action showed the country’s determination to protect health and keep markets fair.
During the UAE’s campaign against illegal goods, inspectors seized 11.52 million packs of tobacco without Digital Tax Stamps. These products were absent from the FTA’s electronic tracking system. The total was over double last year’s count. The Digital Tax Stamp system follows each pack from production or imports through to sale. It prevents tax evasion, smuggling, and counterfeiting.
The UAE’s crackdown on illegal goods also focused on non-compliant beverages. Inspectors took 6.1 million bottles and cans off the market. This amount was over three times higher than last year’s total.
Under UAE excise tax laws, carbonated drinks, energy drinks, and sweetened beverages are taxed. These measures aim to cut the consumption of unhealthy products. Starting next year, sugar-sweetened drinks will be taxed according to their sugar content instead of a flat rate.
The FTA carried out 85,500 field visits during the UAE illegal goods crackdown. This was a 110.7 per cent increase from the year before. These inspections generated Dh357.22 million in taxes and fines, an 86.29 per cent rise from last year. The growth reflected both wider operations and better enforcement.
Sara AlHabshi, Executive Director of Tax Compliance, said advanced monitoring tools played a key role in the UAE illegal goods crackdown. She noted that technology improved market oversight and allowed faster detection of illegal goods. She confirmed that nationwide inspections will continue to protect consumers and ensure all businesses follow the law.
The UAE illegal goods crackdown shows the country’s resolve to protect the economy and health. By combining advanced technology with strict inspections, the FTA builds stronger market regulation. This approach ensures fair taxation, keeps harmful products out, and increases public trust.
