Kenya clamps down on tax stamp abuse

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has started a campaign of tobacco-retailer inspections aimed at catching out those using fake or superseded excise stamps, according to a story in The Star.

The KRA phased out the-now superseded excise stamps in November 2012 and introduced a new generation of less easily forged stamps last year so as to curb tax evasion.

“Some of the traders are affixing genuine stamps on … tobacco products supplied to major hotels and supermarkets while using fake excise stamps on the … tobacco products sold at drinking dens in the slums and low income areas,” said the KRA in a statement on Wednesday.

The tax collection agency said those found with fake or outdated stamps would be prosecuted.