What is Excise Tax in the UAE?
Inaugurated by the government of the United Arab Emirates in 2017, the excise tax constitutes a form of indirect taxation levied on specific products, including energy drinks, carbonated beverages, tobacco, sweetened drinks, and e-cigarettes, with the goal of reducing the consumption of products that have a detrimental effect on the environment and public health. This tax has a significant impact on a variety of industries, including manufacturing and retail, and it is essential for firms to follow these rules in order to stay out of trouble and continue operating efficiently.
The following goods are subject to excise tax:
- Carbonated drinks
- Energy drinks
- Tobacco products
- Sweetened beverages
- E-cigarettes and their liquids
Businesses that manufacture, import, or store these goods are required to submit excise tax returns and payments via the Federal Tax Authority's (FTA) web portal on a monthly or quarterly basis.
Potential Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with excise tax regulations can result in severe penalties, which may include:
- Failure to Register for Excise Tax: AED 20,000.
- Late Filing of Tax Returns: AED 1,000 for the first occurrence, AED 2,000 for repeated offenses within 24 months.
- Late Payment of Excise Tax: A 2% penalty immediately, followed by an additional 4% after 7 days, and a daily penalty of 1% after 1 month (up to a maximum of 300%).
- Submission of Incorrect Information: AED 3,000 plus a percentage of the undeclared tax.
- Failure to Maintain Records: AED 10,000 for the first offense and AED 50,000 for repeated violations.
- Non-Compliance with Warehouse Regulations: AED 20,000.
These penalties can be severe, and repeated violations may lead to additional scrutiny from the FTA, harming the business’s reputation and operations. Given these hefty penalties, ensuring compliance is not just essential for avoiding fines but also for maintaining your business’s good standing with the FTA.
Compliance for Excise Tax Returns in the UAE
Ensuring adherence to excise tax regulations may appear challenging; however, with appropriate guidance, businesses can maintain compliance effectively. Tax Accounting Services, can help businesses manage these obligations effectively. Below are the key compliance requirements for excise tax registration in the UAE:
- Excise Tax Registration - Businesses must register with the FTA before engaging in taxable activities. This applies to all entities involved in the production, importation, or storage of excisable goods.
- Accurate Record-Keeping - Businesses are required to maintain comprehensive records for excisable goods, including production, importation, storage, and distribution. It’s essential to keep invoices, receipts, and other relevant documentation easily accessible.
- Timely Filing of Excise Tax Returns - Businesses must ensure that excise tax returns are submitted on time, accurately reflecting the tax payable and including detailed information on the movement of excisable goods.
- Payment of Excise Tax - Failure to make timely payments for excise tax may lead to penalties. It is important for businesses to remit payment by the deadline to avoid additional fees.
Compliance with Labeling and Packaging Regulations
The FTA has specific guidelines on the packaging and labeling of excisable goods. This includes the mandatory use of digital tax stamps on tobacco products, which businesses must adhere to.
Adherence to Rules for Designated Zones and Warehouses
Businesses storing excisable goods in designated zones must secure the necessary permits and follow the FTA’s regulations on warehouse management.
How can Excellence Assist You
Excellence specializes in providing comprehensive support to businesses in managing their excise tax return obligations. By choosing the right Tax consultants in UAE who have an immense experience in this industry, businesses can operate with confidence, knowing their excise tax returns obligations are managed professionally and efficiently by experts.
As a trusted tax consultant in UAE, Excellence assists companies in every step of managing excise tax obligations, from registration to filing and payments, guiding businesses through the registration process with the FTA, and ensuring that all required documents are submitted accurately and promptly. We help businesses maintain accurate records and meet all FTA compliance standards.