New fiscal stamp prices for excise goods come into effect/ Tariffs reduced by up to 25%

2025-03-27 20:22:00, Ekonomi CNA

New fiscal stamp prices for excise goods come into effect/ Tariffs reduced by up

The prices of fiscal stamps for excise goods are reduced by up to 25%. The decision "On the determination of security elements and the price of fiscal stamps" has been published in the Official Gazette, which enters into force immediately.

According to the decision, the price of the fiscal stamp for beers will be 17.22 euros per 1,000 pieces, down from 22 euros per 1,000 pieces that businesses paid to the concessionaire company "Sicpa Security Solutions" Albania, sh.pk. The tariff reduction is 20%.

For other excise goods, such as tobacco, the price will be 15.65 euros per thousand pieces, down from 21 euros per thousand pieces that was paid. The reduction is 25%.

For alcohol, the fiscal stamp fee will be 25.05 euros per thousand pieces, down from 32 euros previously. A 16.5% reduction.

For the summer, the fee for 1,000 fiscal stamps will be 25.04 euros.

The decision also defines security elements for tracking fiscal stamps, including secure backgrounds with Guilloche patterns, fine text, and color-changing effects.

Digital security features will include elements such as: a) unique identifier: each fiscal stamp contains a highly secure and encrypted identifier for the tracking system; b) 2D codes: include visible and invisible 2D codes, which are used to monitor the movement of products and ensure integrity. C) Secure codes for the cold beverage industry: Alternative to security stamps: unique 2D code, printed during the production process; b) Other features: resistant to background interference and verifiable by consumers and relevant authorities.

Production of new fiscal stamps

Until December 2024, the production of fiscal stamps was carried out by the concession company under the concession contract "For the design, financing, manufacturing and establishment of a system for the issuance, distribution, tracking and monitoring of fiscal stamps and drug control stamps" concluded between the Ministry of Finance, as the Contracting Authority, and the companies "SICPA Security Solutions SA" and "SICPA Security Solutions Albania sh.pk" approved by law no. 10381, dated 24.02.2011, amended by law no. 17, dated 16.02.2023.

After extending the contract duration for another 2 years to 2022, tariffs were reduced by 10%.

Immediately after the end of the concession contract, in early 2025, excise goods businesses raised concerns about the lack of production of new stamps. The Ministry of Finance and Economy explained that their production will be enabled by a new company that will implement modern technology supported by the United Arab Emirates. The new production started in March.

"In accordance with Law No. 145/2020 "On the ratification of the International Agreement on Economic Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Albania and the Government of the United Arab Emirates", one of the most important initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Finance is that work is being done to create a new company, which will function under the administration of the Securities Printing House (SHLV), with the aim of strengthening its capacities in managing the processes of production and distribution of fiscal stamps.

This company will implement modern technologies and advanced processes, with the support of the United Arab Emirates, with the aim of improving the quality of services and increasing the reliability of the fiscal stamp system.

"The new company will begin operations in March 2025, ensuring a secure system, as well as high quality in the production and control process of fiscal stamps," the announcement said.

Also, many businesses have pre-purchased fiscal stamps until March 31st.

The Ministry of Finance clarifies that the transitional period from the conclusion of the Concession contract until the start of the production of fiscal stamps by the company is covered by article 109, point 9, of the law "On Excise in the Republic of Albania", which provides for the right to use ordered stamps until March 31, 2025./ Monitor Magazine