Updated 11 October: the implementation date is approaching
The GTA's announced laboratory-to-Dhareeba procedure for sweetened-drink registrations starts on 1 November 2026. Analysis certificates will be transmitted electronically through integration with Ministry of Public Health-accredited laboratories registered with the GTA.
The taxpayer submits the product-registration application through Dhareeba and provides a sample to an eligible laboratory. After approval, the laboratory sends the results and certificate automatically to the platform.
An evidence workflow, not a new rate announcement
The procedure replaces manual certificate attachment for the covered registration process. The GTA's announcement does not set a new excise rate.
Producers, importers and compliance teams responsible for registering affected products should confirm that their chosen laboratory meets both the accreditation and GTA-registration requirements.
Prepare the product information
T&M analysis: the principal operational risk is a mismatch between the product application, sample and laboratory record. Keep identifiers, formulation information and responsible contacts consistent across the workflow.
Inventory registrations in progress and establish which owner will resolve a missing or rejected transmission. A hand-off between laboratory and tax platform can still require business follow-up even when the transfer is automated.
The readiness check
Confirm the laboratory route, product data and registration responsibilities before 1 November. Ask for current official instructions where an application straddles the transition or the treatment of an existing certificate is unclear.