Published 30 September 2026, this analytical article addresses the excise tax and VAT accounting treatment of electronic gift certificates for alcoholic beverages under the Law “On Amendments to the Tax Code Regarding Electronic Gift Certificates” (effective 2025). The guidance covers the moment of excise duty liability, VAT point of taxation, and required documentation for both issuers (retailers) and redeemers.
Key Takeaways
- Excise Deferral: Excise duty on alcohol sold via e-certificates is due at the moment of certificate redemption (goods transfer), not at certificate sale, aligning with the “supply” principle in Article 238 of the Tax Code.
- VAT on Certificate Sale: The sale of the e-certificate itself is a VAT-exempt financial service (Article 197.1), but the subsequent alcohol supply is subject to 20% VAT at redemption.
- Traceability Requirement: Retailers must link each e-certificate unique ID to the specific alcohol excise marks (UKM) in the Electronic Excise Administration System (EEAS) to prevent diversion.
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
