The GST Council recently held its 55th meeting in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. It was chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The GST Council announced several important GST Updates. These updates are aiming at simplifying compliance, reducing tax burdens, and streamlining GST-related processes. Let’s all the important GST Updates announced in December 2024.
Changes in GST Rates
- The GST rate on Fortified Rice Kernel, classified under HSN 1904, has been reduced to 5%.
- Gene therapy services are now fully exempt from GST. Thus, promoting accessibility to advanced medical treatments.
GST Exemptions announced
- Firstly, general insurance companies’ contributions from third-party motor vehicle premiums are now exempt from GST.
- Imports of specified equipment by International Atomic Energy Agency inspection teams are also exempt from IGST.
Important Note: Concessional GST rate of 5% on food inputs used by the government to help weaker economic sections is extended.
GST Council’s Clarifications on Vouchers and Penal Charges
- GST Council recommends no GST on transaction of vouchers as they are neither supply of goods nor supply of services.
- Penal charges levied by banks and NBFCs for non-compliance with loan terms are free from GST.
GST Taxation Changes for Hotels and Restaurants
Restaurant service rates will depend on the previous year’s accommodation value per unit. However, hotels also have an option to choose a flat 18% GST rate with ITC. These changes will be effective from April 1, 2025.
GST on Used Vehicles
The GST rate on old and used vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs), has been increased from 12% to 18%, applied only to the supplier’s margin.
GST Classification and Rates for Ready-to-Eat Popcorn
Efforts to Streamline GST Compliance
Simplified Appeal Pre-Deposit for Penalties
The GST Council has recommended reducing the pre-deposit amount required for filing appeals involving only penalty orders.
Clarifications for SEZ and Free Trade Zones
Supplies warehoused in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) or Free Trade Warehousing Zones (FTWZs) are treated as neither goods nor services. Therefore, ensuring consistency in tax treatment.
Input Tax Credit (ITC) Clarifications
- In an Ex-Works contract, goods delivered to the recipient at the supplier’s location qualify for ITC claims.
- Furthermore, No proportional reversal of ITC is required for supplies under Section 9(5) of the CGST Act.
What you need to know as a business?
The Council’s decisions demonstrate a dedication to reducing compliance burdens, clarifying tax issues, and assisting businesses. Hence, you must stay aware about key changes in GST Return Filing and GST Registration in order to reap the benefits and stay compliant. For more GST insights or to get your doubts clarified, you can consult our experts at 8881-069-069.
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