Bahrain’s Revenue Bureau Uncovers 71 VAT Violations in Six Months

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The National Bureau for Revenue (NBR) carried out 724 inspection visits across local markets in Bahrain during the first half of 2025, as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance with Value Added Tax (VAT) and Excise Tax regulations.

In a statement, the NBR said these visits aim to protect consumer rights, combat tax evasion, and ensure that businesses apply VAT and excise rules properly.

As a result of the inspections, the Bureau recorded 71 violations related to VAT laws, leading to administrative fines. The most common offense was the failure to comply with VAT invoicing requirements. Other violations included:

Displaying prices without including VAT

Not showing a valid VAT registration certificate

Not issuing VAT invoices

Issuing VAT invoices for goods or services that are not subject to VAT

In terms of excise tax enforcement, the NBR identified 8 violations for possessing excise goods without paying the required tax. Legal actions and penalties were applied accordingly.

Additionally, the inspections uncovered 8 suspected cases of VAT and excise tax evasion. Legal procedures are currently underway. The penalties for VAT evasion can include up to five years in prison and fines up to three times the evaded amount. For excise tax evasion, penalties can reach one year in prison and fines double the unpaid tax.

The NBR emphasized the importance of complying with tax regulations and urged the public to report any violations. Reports can be made 24/7 via the call center (80008001), the Tawasul national complaints system, or by visiting the NBR’s official website for more information.