(FE)
Ruling out a single rate GST, Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian today pitched for a three rate structure going forward as revenues stabilise. He said Goods and Services Tax is a “work in progress” and there is a need for further simplification of rates with fewer exemptions and simpler policies.
“In India, we can never have one rate. I had recommended a standard rate and one for demerit good, one for low rate. I think, in India, the debate should be about ‘why can’t we have three’, rather than ‘why not one’,” Subramanian said at an NCAER event here.Under the GST regime, there are four rates — 5 per cent, 12 per cent, 18 per cent and 28 per cent. Luxury and demerit goods are subject to cess on top of the highest slab.
The single rate GST structure was advocated by Congress President Rahul Gandhi. Subramanian said since GST is a regressive tax, it won’t be “fair” to have a single rate structure unless there are instruments to protect the poor who get hurt by rising costs.n “…I think over time we will see simplification. For example, once the revenue stabilises, 28 per cent can (be rationalised)…. but the broader point I want to make is that why can’t we have three (tax slabs). That’s what we should ask for,” said Subramanian.
