13 June, 2024
Commissioner General of Gambia Revenue Authority Commends GAMBEGA and Bel Bottling Group for Compliance with Digital Tax Stamp Initiative
Today, June 13, 2024, the Commissioner General of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr. Yankuba Darboe, accompanied by Senior Officials of the Authority and journalists from various media houses visited the facilities of GAMBEGA in Kanifing and Bel Bottling Group in Bonto Village, Kombo East. The purpose of his visit was to express his appreciation for their compliance with the GRA's newly implemented digital tax stamp initiative.
During the visit, Mr. Darboe highlighted the significance of the digital tax stamp . He emphasized that this measure is essential for ensuring that excisable goods are appropriately taxed and for eliminating smuggling and counterfeit products from the market. The digital tax stamp not only broadens the tax base in revenue collection but also safeguards consumers from potentially harmful counterfeit goods.
The management teams at both GAMBEGA and Bel Bottling Group warmly received the Commissioner General's visit. They expressed their gratitude for the recognition of their compliance efforts and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the GRA's initiatives.
Mr. Darboe took the opportunity to address the public, urging consumers to avoid purchasing excisable goods that do not bear the digital tax stamp. He stated, "By choosing products with the digital tax stamp, you are not only ensuring your own safety but also encouraging other manufacturers to be tax compliant. This collective effort is crucial in combating the spread of smuggling and counterfeit goods in our country."
The GRA's digital tax stamp initiative represents a modern approach to tax administration, leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and accountability. This system enables better tracking of goods and ensures that all taxable products contribute fairly to national revenue.
The visit to GAMBEGA and Bel Bottling Group is part of a broader campaign by the GRA to engage with stakeholders and promote widespread adoption of the digital tax stamp. By urging more manufacturers to comply, the GRA anticipates a significant reduction in counterfeit goods, thereby fostering a safer and more transparent market environment.
Mr. Clark Jarra, Project Manager at SICPA, the Gambia Government's partner in implementing this project, also commented on the security aspects of the digital tax stamp. He highlighted features such as the product verification app, which everyone can download and use to verify the digital tax stamp using their mobile phone.
GRA's efforts, led by Mr. Darboe, highlight a proactive approach to tax administration and consumer protection. The support from key players like GAMBEGA and Bel Bottling Group underscores the collective responsibility required to achieve these goals. GRA remains committed to ensuring a fair and secure market for all.