The Rajasthan State Excise Department has strengthened its alcohol control framework with the introduction of a new generation of tax stamps, combining enhanced physical security with upgraded digital verification. The move reflects a broader shift among Indian states towards more robust, multi-layered approaches to combating illicit trade.

In October, Holography & Optical Technology News™ reported on Hong Kong Customs (HKC) launch of a three-month pilot programme for its new tobacco duty stamp system. The initiative involved holographic trial duty stamps on duty-paid cigarette packs to help prevent illegal trade and enhance tax compliance.

Hong Kong Customs has started a three-month pilot scheme under the new duty stamp system to tackle illicit tobacco sales and ensure tax compliance.

Argentina’s cigarette tax stamps have undergone a redesign following the transformation of the country’s tax authority from the Administración Federal de Ingresos Públicos (AFIP) to the Agencia de Recaudación y Control Aduanero (ARCA). While the change reflects new institutional branding and regulatory updates under General Resolution 5603/2024, the stamps’ core optical security features remain firmly in place.

The Uttarakhand State Excise Department, located in northern India, has enhanced its tax stamps by incorporating optical security features.

The 12th edition of the Reconnaissance Tax Stamp & Traceability Forum™ (TSTF) took place from 7-9 April in Cape Town, South Africa. More than 165 delegates from 84 organisations representing 44 countries (including tax authorities from Africa and worldwide) participated in the event. They explored strategic and practical solutions to safeguard and enhance government tax revenues while combating the illicit trade in tobacco, alcohol, and other products.