The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has seized cigarettes from several brands over missing excise stamps and is warning importers, wholesalers and retailers that breaches can lead to prosecution.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 4, the authority named Atlanta, Nashville, GT Smart, B&B, Ultra Buy, Royal Milano and Capi Blue among the brands seized by its law enforcement arm. The GRA did not say how many packs were seized or where the seizures took place.
The authority said every imported package of tobacco or alcohol must carry an excise stamp under Regulation 212 of the Customs Act. It identified Pall Mall, Bristol and Dunhill as examples of legitimate cigarette brands and said packs of those brands must also carry the stamp.
The GRA urged individuals and businesses that have yet to comply to visit its headquarters to regularise their operations. It said it maintains a “zero-tolerance approach against smuggling or any form of tax evasion” and warned that offenders could face penalties, including prosecution.
Members of the public can report suspected smuggling or the sale and distribution of illicit products by calling 227-6060, extensions 3201 to 3210.
