Government Plans to Implement Uniform Packaging Design and Tax Stamp Scheme for Traditional Smoking Products in Q2 Next Year

Media inquiries regarding the implementation of standardized packaging design and excise tax label system for traditional tobacco products: the Department of Health and Welfare stated that the government plans to fully implement both measures simultaneously in the second quarter of 2027.

The Department of Health and Welfare pointed out that standardized packaging design and excise tax labels serve different purposes; the former aims to reduce the appeal of tobacco products, while the latter strengthens efforts against counterfeit cigarettes through the use of excise tax labels. After both measures are fully implemented simultaneously, all legally sold designated tobacco products in Hong Kong must bear excise tax labels. There will be no situation where organizations rely solely on standardized packaging to identify whether a product has been taxed. The standardized packaging design itself is not used to distinguish taxed cigarettes from counterfeit or untaxed cigarettes. Regarding organizations providing false information, the Department of Health and Welfare expressed regret.

Excise tax labels will feature both physical and digital anti-counterfeiting technologies, not just digital features. Physical anti-counterfeiting features are based on techniques commonly used for banknotes and can be distinguished with the naked eye. Therefore, both the general public and merchants can quickly and conveniently verify the authenticity of the labels. Currently, the physical anti-counterfeiting technology in the market is quite mature and effectively prevents counterfeit labels. The digital anti-counterfeiting features are intended to assist frontline customs officers in enforcement. If citizens still have doubts about the authenticity of the excise tax labels after inspecting the physical features, they can report to Customs for investigation.

Customs completed a pilot program for the excise tax label system in January this year and held multiple briefings to comprehensively introduce the latest developments and future arrangements of the system to the tobacco industry. Customs’ promotional efforts will continue, and industry participation is encouraged.