GST Rate in India: 15 Essential Items and Their Rates
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a comprehensive indirect tax reform in India that has replaced multiple indirect taxes such as Value-Added Tax (VAT), Service Tax, Excise Duty, and others. GST is levied on the supply of goods and services across the country. The GST rates vary depending on the type of goods and services, and they are categorized into five tax slabs: 0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%. Here are 15 essential items and their GST rates:
1. Food Items
GST Rate: 0% to 5%
- Fresh fruits and vegetables: 0%
- Meat, fish, and poultry: 0%
- Milk and dairy products: 0%
- Biscuits and bakery products: 5%
2. Beverages
GST Rate: 12% to 28%
- Tea and coffee: 12%
- Fruit juice and other beverages: 12%
- Aerated drinks: 28%
3. Personal Care Items
GST Rate: 12% to 18%
- Soap and toothpaste: 12%
- Shampoo and hair care products: 18%
- Cosmetics and beauty products: 18%
4. Healthcare and Medical Items
GST Rate: 0% to 12%
- Medicines: 0% to 5%
- Medical equipment and devices: 0% to 12%
- Healthcare services: 0%
5. Electronics and Appliances
GST Rate: 12% to 28%
- Mobile phones: 12%
- TVs and computers: 18%
- Refrigerators and air conditioners: 28%
6. Fuel and Energy
GST Rate: 5% to 28%
- Petrol and diesel: 28% (including cess)
- CNG and piped natural gas: 5%
- Electricity: 0%
7. Education and Stationery
GST Rate: 0% to 12%
- Books and educational materials: 0%
- Stationery and office supplies: 12%
8. Clothing and Textiles
GST Rate: 5% to 12%
- Fabrics and yarns: 5%
- Readymade garments: 12%
9. Home and Furniture
GST Rate: 12% to 28%
- Furniture and fixtures: 12%
- Home decor and furnishings: 18%
- Ceramic and sanitary ware: 28%
10. Automobiles
GST Rate: 28% to 43%
- Cars and SUVs: 28% (including cess)
- Two-wheelers: 28%
- Buses and trucks: 43%
11. Jewellery and Precious Metals
GST Rate: 3% to 5%
- Gold and silver jewellery: 3%
- Precious stones and semi-precious stones: 3%
- Diamonds and other precious metals: 5%
12. Sports and Fitness
GST Rate: 12% to 28%
- Sports equipment and accessories: 12%
- Fitness equipment and gym services: 18%
13. Travel and Tourism
GST Rate: 5% to 18%
- Hotel accommodation: 5% to 18%
- Tour operator services: 5%
- Travel agent services: 5%
14. Insurance and Financial Services
GST Rate: 0% to 18%
- Life insurance and health insurance: 0%
- General insurance and reinsurance: 18%
15. Construction and Building Materials
GST Rate: 5% to 28%
- Cement and concrete: 28%
- Steel and iron products: 18%
- Bricks and blocks: 5%
It's essential to note that GST rates are subject to change, and some items may have additional cess or surcharges. It's always a good idea to check the current GST rates and comply with the regulations to avoid any penalties or fines.
