The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) wishes to remind all importers, wholesalers, and retailers that all imported packages/units of alcoholic/tobacco products must be affixed with an Excise Stamp in accordance with Regulation 212 of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01.

Failure to comply with this Regulation have resulted in several illegal/uncustomed brands being seized by the Law Enforcement arm of the Authority. The illegal/uncustomed brands seized include Atlanta, Nashville, GT Smart, B&B, Ultra Buy, Royal Milano, Record, Aurora, Gold Mount, Pride, Record, Capital, Star Gold, Rio, 51, Marshal, Marine, Landus, Pine, Elegance, Tradition, and Capi Blue.

The Authority takes this opportunity to reiterate its commitment to working together with legitimate importers and the general public to ensure compliance with the various Tax, Trade and Border Laws.

The Authority, in its ongoing effort to combat the trade of illicit Tobacco brands, hereby notifies importers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers of Tobacco products that, thus far, brands such as Pall Mall, Bristol, Dunhill are deemed to be legitimate and in compliance with Tax Laws and Health Act. These and all legitimately imported cigarettes must be affixed with the requisite Excise Tax Stamps.

As such, individuals and companies that may not be fully compliant are hereby urged to visit the GRA Headquarters to regularize their trade affairs and become compliant, since the GRA has a zero-tolerance approach against smuggling or any form of tax evasion. Offenders may face penalties as stipulated under the laws inclusive of prosecution.

For further information or clarification, please contact the GRA’s hotline at 227-6060, extensions 3201-3210. Members of the public may also use these numbers to report suspected smuggling activities or the sale and distribution of illicit products.