Manama, Jan. 28 (BNA): As part of its ongoing efforts to improve business compliance in local markets and guarantee adherence to all rules and laws for the efficient implementation of VAT and excise, the National Bureau for Revenue (NBR) carried out 1216 inspection visits within the local markets in the governorates of the Kingdom of Bahrain during 2025. Construction, manufacturing, real estate, retail, plumbing, heat and air conditioning installation, travel agencies, vehicle repair, labor supply, jewelry selling, and other industries were all included in the inspection.
NBR conducted 1216 inspection visits in 2025 to strengthen oversight of the commercial entities
This demonstrates the NBR’s continued dedication to keeping an eye on the market, guaranteeing a high degree of protection for consumer rights, preventing VAT and excise evasion, and raising knowledge of the proper methods of implementation. A high compliance rate of 86.5% throughout local markets in 2025 was the outcome of these efforts, demonstrating the beneficial effects of NBR’s ongoing oversight and awareness campaigns.
According to the NBR, efficient monitoring of the local market has led to the submission of 145 VAT infractions, for which the law has imposed administrative fines. In addition to other infractions like failing to show prices inclusive of VAT, failing to display a VAT certificate in a visible location, failing to issue VAT invoices, and issuing VAT invoices on non-VATable goods or services, the most frequently reported infractions had to do with the requirements for issuing VAT invoices.
The NBR reported 19 infractions pertaining to the purchase of excise goods with unpaid excise dues and the supply of excise goods without a valid and active digital stamp, for which administrative fines were imposed, as part of its continuous efforts to guarantee appropriate excise implementation in the local market.
As a result of the NBR’s increased oversight efforts, suspicious cases of VAT and excise evasion were found, and violators were prosecuted. Those found guilty of evasion crimes could face five years in prison and a fine equal to three times the amount of VAT owed, or a year in prison and a fine equal to twice the amount of evaded excise.
The NBR emphasized how crucial it is to follow all rules and laws in order to guarantee the efficient application of VAT and excise. Additionally, the NBR encouraged all parties involved to report any infractions by using the National Suggestions & Complaints System (Tawasul) or calling the NBR call center at 80008001, which is open around-the-clock. The NBR’s website, www.nbr.gov.bh, also has comprehensive information.
