The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved a new resolution mandating electronic labeling for excisable goods. Starting January 1, 2026, all packs of cigarettes, bottles of alcohol, and liquids for electronic cigarettes (vapes) must feature a DataMatrix code. According to the Ministry of Finance, this measure will increase the traceability of these products, provide additional control over their legal sale, and help reduce the shadow market for alcohol and tobacco.
The new system is expected to improve the efficiency of excise tax administration and boost state budget revenues. Consumers will also be able to verify a product’s legality by scanning the code with an app. This initiative is a key part of the broader “E-Excise” system, which has been in a testing phase since March 2025.