On 29 October 2026, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) issued a public notice regarding the disposal of seized and unclaimed goods through electronic auctioning. This action is mandated under the Commissioner General’s powers to seize goods that contravene the Digital Tax Stamp (DTS) requirements. The notice signals intensified enforcement of the DTS regime, which aims to combat tax evasion on excisable goods such as alcohol, tobacco, and non‑alcoholic beverages. Taxpayers involved in the manufacture, importation, or distribution of gazetted products must ensure that all units bear valid digital tax stamps before market release.
Key Takeaways
- Seizure Authority and Legal Basis: The Commissioner General is empowered to seize goods found without valid Digital Tax Stamps, reinforcing the mandatory stamp requirement for all excisable goods entering the Ugandan market.
- Public Auction Process: Seized and unclaimed goods will be disposed of via an online auction platform. Interested buyers must register and participate electronically, ensuring transparency and broad participation.
- Compliance Imperative for Traders: Importers, manufacturers, and distributors must audit their supply chains to verify that all products carry authentic digital stamps. Non‑compliance risks seizure, financial loss, and potential prosecution under the Excise Duty Act.
Disclaimer: This article is compiled and summarized by the AI based on publicly available information and is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute any form of formal tax advice, legal opinion, or basis for performance. Please consult a qualified professional tax advisor or legal counsel for tax advice.
Source: Read Official Announcement