Marking a major step in the fight against counterfeit goods and efforts to boost tax compliance, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) officially launched its groundbreaking Excise Stamp Verification mobile application, “CHECK AM,” on July 23, 2025.

This groundbreaking initiative is poised to transform how consumers interact with excisable goods, while bolstering Government efforts to curb tax evasion and illicit trade.

The app allows users to instantly verify the authenticity of products such as alcoholic beverages, non-alcoholic sugar-sweetened drinks (including soft drinks and juices), bottled water and tobacco products. By scanning the excise stamp affixed to the product using a smartphone camera, consumers can determine whether a product is legitimate or potentially harmful.

Once downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, the CHECK AM app provides real-time feedback, displaying crucial product details like the manufacturer’s name, date of stamp marking and tax compliance status. If the product is verified as authentic, the app will confirm that the excise stamp is approved. In cases where a stamp is invalid, unrecognized or fraudulent, users will be promptly alerted and encouraged to report the suspicious item to authorities.

This real-time, user-friendly solution is part of the NRA’s broader strategy to safeguard public health, protect legitimate businesses and increase national revenue collection. Counterfeit and untaxed goods not only endanger consumers but also undercut law-abiding businesses and drain critical public resources. By introducing the CHECK AM app, the NRA is tightening enforcement, ensuring market fairness and closing loopholes that previously allowed for the circulation of fake goods.

According to the NRA, the app supports Sierra Leone’s digital transformation agenda, which prioritizes transparency, efficiency and accountability in public service delivery. The initiative underscores the vital role of technology in modern tax administration and enforcement.

“The CHECK AM app is a game-changer,” said an NRA spokesperson. “It puts power directly in the hands of consumers while supporting our mission to protect revenue and ensure public safety.”

To drive mass adoption, the NRA plans to roll out nationwide awareness campaigns targeting consumers, retailers and distributors. These efforts will educate the public on the dangers of counterfeit goods and the importance of verifying excise stamps before making purchases.

The introduction of the CHECK AM app marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s ongoing fight against counterfeit goods and tax evasion. It offers a win-win solution for all stakeholders: consumers gain confidence in the products they use; genuine businesses operate in a more level playing field and the Government secures much-needed revenue to fund critical services and national development projects.

Embracing innovation and digital transformation to improve governance and service delivery, Sierra Leone showcases its commitment through the CHECK AM app; an impactful solution that safeguards consumers, strengthens regulatory compliance and promotes greater economic transparency. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/nra-unveils-check-am-excise-stamp-verification-app/