Ouagadougou: The Burkinabe government officially launched the Marking, Authentication and Traceability System (SMAT) on Tuesday in Bobo-Dioulasso, a technological device designed to ensure the monitoring and traceability of tobacco products and new tobacco products manufactured in Burkina Faso or imported. The ceremony took place at the MABUCIG Industries company premises, in the presence of several administrative authorities, industrial sector stakeholders, and technical partners. The SMAT was established by decree no. 0198 of March 4, 2025.
According to Burkina Information Agency, this mechanism aims to better regulate the tobacco market, combat illicit trade, and ensure the conformity of products placed on the market. In practical terms, each affected product will now bear a specific and secure marking allowing for its identification and authentication. This process will enable the relevant authorities to track the product from its manufacture or importation to its sale.
For the system's proponents, this innovation represents a significant step forward in modernizing economic and fiscal control tools. It should also contribute to strengthening consumer protection by making it possible to distinguish legitimate products from those originating from fraudulent channels. During the ceremony, a technical demonstration of the equipment was given to the guests. Marking machines, secure codes, and real-time reading devices were used to showcase the system's operation and the control capabilities offered by the technology implemented.
The President and CEO of KAPEO SA, the project's technical partner, Mr. Kaho Abdel Rabin Goro, explained that the marking consists of affixing a secure sticker to each unit, allowing for its unique identification. According to him, this system makes each product traceable, identifiable, and verifiable, while also facilitating the monitoring of production and distribution flows. He indicated that this solution provides a concrete response to the challenges related to fraud and illicit trade.
Mr. Goro also commended MABUCIG Industries' commitment to implementing the system. He felt that this membership reflects the company's willingness to promote compliance, transparency, and accountability in its operations. For several observers present at the scene, the launch of the SMAT marks a turning point in the regulation of the tobacco sector in Burkina Faso. They believe that rigor, traceability, and competitiveness should now progress simultaneously.
The authorities present, for their part, reaffirmed their commitment to building a healthier and more competitive economic environment through structural reforms and partnerships with the private sector.