55th GST Council Meeting: Key Points



Quick Summary
The 55th GST Council meeting, held on 21st December 2024, introduced several significant changes. Key among these are updated rules for Input Tax Credit (ITC) on goods in transit and the omission of the 'Declared Tariff' definition, shifting focus to the actual supply value. The meeting also saw an increase in GST rates for certain old cars and EVs, the introduction of a unique identification marking system for supply chain tracking, and clarifications on GST for popcorn and voucher transactions.

The 55th meeting of the GST Council, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, was held on 21st December 2024 in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Key changes and amendments are

GST Council Meeting 55: Key Updates and Changes

Goods in Transit

Goods handed over to the transporter are deemed received by the buyer for ITC purposes, provided ownership transfers at this point

If the supplier is responsible for delivery, ITC eligibility arises only upon actual receipt of goods

Declared Tariff Definition Omitted (Effective 01.04.2025)

1. Value of actual supply to be considered instead of declared tariff

2. GST on restaurant services at 18% with ITC for accommodations exceeding ₹7500/year

3. Hotels may opt for 18% GST with ITC on restaurant services by prior declaration

GST Rate Changes

GST on old cars (including EVs) increased from 12% to 18% for specified vehicle categories (e.g., petrol/diesel vehicles meeting size and engine capacity criteria)

Evasion-Prone Commodities Tracking

  • A unique Identification Marking system was introduced for tracking commodities throughout the supply chain
  • Pre-packaged and labelled goods under 25 kg/ltr. for retail sales to comply with declarations under the Legal Metrology Act
 

Now what is the Legal Metrology Act?

The Legal Metrology Act was enacted to establish standards of weights and measures and regulate trade and commerce in weights, measures, and other goods that are sold or distributed by weight, measure, or number

Popcorn-related clarification by the council

  • Loose plain, salted, or spiced popcorn: 5% GST
  • Pre-packaged plain or spiced popcorn: 12% GST
  • Caramelized popcorn: 18% GST

This change is a big question and a matter of debate in public!

 

Voucher-related transactions

  • Not treated as a supply of goods or services
  • GST applies only to agent commission
  • Unredeemed vouchers not subject to GST

What is your viewpoint on these changes? Comment below.

The author can also be reached at aman.rajput@mail.ca.in


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About the Author

Chartered Accountant

CA Aman Rajput, Associate Chartered Accountant, DISA, FAFDContact me at 8209604735Email ID aman.rajput @ mail.ca.in Introduction CA Aman Rajput is an entrepreneurial Chartered Accountant and Partner at ATK and Associates, headquartered in Ghaziabad. With a strong academic foundation, holding a Masters in Commerce, ... Read more

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