Exemption versus Zero rating: Demystifying non-taxable supplies under Goods and Services Tax

A tax issue is currently being the subject-matter of strenuous discussion in the mainstream discourse. It relates to levy of goods and services tax (GST) on Covid-related medicines and equipment. Given the havoc created by the pandemic and the impelling need to make life-saving equipment accessible, the levy of GST upon them is being extensively debated. One suggestion is to exempt these supplies, thereby reducing the tax burden. However, the Government does not appear keen on this suggestion. Then there is another suggestion to make these supplies as zero rated, which has its own dimensions. Given the life-saving value of these equipment, the arguments against levy of tax on them are overwhelmingly emotive, and understandably so. However, to put the debate in proper perspective, a conceptual appreciation of the relevant variables is necessary. In this context, this article attempts to enunciate the significance and consequences of exemption and zero rating in the paradigm of GST laws.

Source scconline.com

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