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One Nation One Tax: GST and the Steel Industry

The Indian Steel Association has sent a representation to the Ministry of Steel on the possibilities to overcome the above issues. The key recommendations made by the Industry include reduction of the GST rate on metal scrap and to consider the entire supply chain of scrap from the perspective of reverse charge mechanism under GST. These recommendations were made keeping in mind the revenue-neutral transaction for the Government and to discourage the incorrect practices being followed in the scrap Industry. However, the best feasible solution is yet to be finalized by the Government. This issue may act as a hurdle in the fulfilment of the Government’s objective, as laid under the National Steel Policy. Since its implementation, the Indian GST law has undergone various amendments and refinements based on feedback from businesses and other relevant stakeholders. GST rates were also tweaked to remove the anomalies keeping in mind the needs of the economy. As every reform is evolving, GST also needs constant review based on the evolving needs of the economy. The next phase of GST reforms should cover further rate rationalization to remove disparities within the same category of products. Scope of Input tax credit should be expended covering all business expenses under the ambit. Tax compliance should be administered in one place instead of State-wise for the taxpayers like insurance, banking, telecommunications, etc. having a pan-India presence.