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The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is an indirect tax introduced in India in 2017, designed to replace various taxes such as VAT, service tax, and excise duty. It applies to the supply of goods and services at various stages, from manufacturing to the final consumer, creating a unified taxation system.
GST on the pharmaceutical industry in India is levied under four different tax slabs: NIL, 5%, 12%, and 18%. The applicable rate depends on the type of drugs being supplied. It is important to understand these rates for accurate tax filing and compliance with GST laws, particularly for businesses involved in the sale or distribution of pharmaceutical goods.
NIL GST
Pharmaceutical products exempt from GST include essential items like human blood and contraceptives. Medicines administered during hospitalisation may also qualify for NIL GST.
5% GST
The 5% GST rate applies to the most essential medicines, including life-saving drugs and medicines crucial for public health and wellness. These include vaccines, certain antibiotics, insulin, and drugs for critical illnesses.
12% GST
A 12% GST rate is applicable to medicines and health-related products that are classified as non-essential but are still used for therapeutic or prophylactic purposes.
18% GST
The 18% GST rate applies to non-essential pharmaceutical products that are not considered life-saving but are still used in healthcare. These include surgical instruments and over-the-counter products.
It is essential for pharmaceutical businesses to have a clear understanding of GST on pharma companies to ensure compliance with tax laws. Incorrect filings can result in penalties or delays, making it crucial to stay informed about the applicable rates for different pharmaceutical products.
Harmonised System of Nomenclature (HSN) codes are internationally recognised codes used to classify goods systematically. In India, the HSN code for pharmaceutical products is used to determine the applicable GST rate for these goods.
Importance of HSN Codes for GST
HSN codes simplify the process of identifying and applying the correct GST rate for each product. Additionally, they allow the government to track and regulate goods, ensuring uniformity across the country. Businesses can determine the applicable GST rate based on the HSN code, which simplifies tax filing and reduces the risk of classification errors.
The table below outlines different HSN codes and their corresponding GST rates to assist in classifying pharmaceutical products:
HSN Codes |
Description |
Rate (%) |
Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|
3003 |
Medicaments (excluding goods of heading 3002, 3005, or 3006) consisting of two or more constituents mixed for therapeutic or prophylactic uses |
12% |
01/07/2017 |
3004 |
Medicaments (excluding goods of heading 3002, 3005, or 3006) consisting of mixed or unmixed products for therapeutic or prophylactic uses, in measured doses |
12% |
01/07/2017 |
9018 |
Instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental, or veterinary sciences, including electro-medical and diagnostic apparatus |
5% to 12% |
01/07/2017 |
3002 |
Human blood and its components |
NIL |
01/07/2017 |
Certain pharmaceutical products are exempt from GST in India. These include items such as human blood and contraceptives. Additionally, medicines provided during hospitalisation may qualify for exemption if they are part of composite healthcare services.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help businesses stay updated on HSN codes and avoid classification errors, ensuring correct tax filings:
Visit the GST website
Log in to the GST portal using your credentials
Click on Services, then User Services, and select Search HSN Code
On the Search page, you can search by either HSN code or product description, or download the HSN directory in Excel format
Enter the HSN code to find the applicable GST rate
Review the GST rate applicable for the selected product, and repeat the process for additional products as needed
Staying informed about GST on pharmaceutical products is essential for accurate tax filings and compliance
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