Bulgarian Store Chains Threatened with Loss of Cigarette Licenses

Bulgaria's Customs Agency Head, Gen. Vanio Tanov, informs cigarettes with fake excise labels have been found in all large store chains in the country. Photo by BGNES

Bulgaria's largest grocery store chains might be in danger of loosing their licenses for the sale of cigarettes, the Customs Agency Head, Gen. Vanio Tanov, warns.

According to Tanov, cigarettes with fake excise labels have been found in all store chains, meaning the Customs should not renew their licenses per the new Tobacco Products Trade Act, effective January 1.

The Customs Head says the same problem exists in the sale of alcohol, but the licenses there are issued by City and Town Halls.

Tanov further informs he is proposing this week to Finance Minister, Simeon Djankov, to make the Act effective July 1, to give these stores some leniency and time to begin complying with the law.

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