New GST Rates from Today: What’s Cheaper, What’s Costlier?

SIBY JEYYA
The Goods and services Tax (GST) has undergone a major revision, and the new rates come into effect today. The GST Council had announced the changes two weeks ago, aiming to ease prices on essential items while rationalizing taxes on certain goods. Here’s a breakdown of what’s cheaper, what’s costlier, and how it affects everyday spending:

1. Why GST Rates Were Revised

The GST Council revised rates to:

  • Reduce the burden on households for essential goods
  • Ensure uniformity in taxation across sectors
  • Encourage consumption of eco-friendly and essential products
This is considered one of the most significant GST overhauls since 2017.

2. Items That Got Cheaper

Several everyday goods now come at lower prices due to reduced GST:

  • Staples: Rice, wheat, pulses
  • Cooking Essentials: Oils, ghee, dairy products
  • Personal Care: Soaps, toothpaste, hygiene products
  • Clothing & Apparel: Casual wear, children’s clothing
Consumers can expect noticeable savings on household and festive shopping.

3. Items That Became Costlier

Some items saw an increase in GST rates, affecting their prices:

  • Luxury items like premium cars, jewelry, and high-end electronics
  • Certain processed foods and beverages
  • Select lifestyle and leisure products
These adjustments are aimed at taxing non-essential or high-end goods more effectively.

4. Impact on Businesses

For manufacturers and retailers, the GST revision requires updating billing software and compliance systems. While essentials are cheaper for consumers, businesses need to ensure correct invoicing and reporting to data-align with the new rates.

5. Sector-Wise Highlights

  • Automobiles: Some vehicles see minor adjustments, balancing affordability with revenue
  • Textiles: Casual and festive wear enjoy lower rates; luxury fabrics may cost more
  • Food & Beverages: Everyday staples are cheaper; processed snacks may have higher GST
6. Consumer Benefits

The revision directly benefits:

  • Households buying daily essentials
  • Shoppers during the Navratri and festive season
  • Consumers of mid-range clothing and lifestyle products
Overall, the GST changes are expected to ease inflationary pressure and encourage spending.

7. How to Check Your Items’ New GST Rate

  • GST Council website and official notifications provide updated rate lists
  • Retailers are required to display new GST-inclusive prices at the point of sale
· Disclaimer:

· The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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