Hong Kong Customs Confirms 99% Success in Holographic Duty Stamp Pilot

In October, Holography & Optical Technology News™ reported on Hong Kong Customs (HKC) launch of a three-month pilot programme for its new tobacco duty stamp system. The initiative involved holographic trial duty stamps on duty-paid cigarette packs to help prevent illegal trade and enhance tax compliance.

The pilot has ended, and HKC reports strong results along with a clear plan for phased implementation. More than 99% of stamps were applied successfully during production, and public feedback on the stamp design was favourable.

Two-phase pilot approach

The pilot was conducted in two phases.

Phase One began on 6 October and focused on making sure operations and technology were ready. Customs put trial duty stamps on duty-paid cigarettes brought in by travellers and on small import shipments at Duty Collection Offices. They also tested the technology at local cigarette manufacturing facilities.