Three-tier structure under GST regime is possible as revenues stabilize: Subramanian

12 Jul 2018 Evaluate

Ruling out a single rate Goods and Services Tax (GST), Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) Arvind Subramanian has said that a three-tier structure under new tax regime is possible as revenues stabilise. He also said that GST, India's biggest reform in indirect taxes still remains a work in progress and there is a need for further simplification of rates with fewer exemptions and simpler policies. He said “in India, we can never have one rate. I had recommended a standard rate and one for demerit good, one for low rate. 

Subramanian has stated that currently, the GST has four rates of 5 percent, 12 percent, 18 percent and 28 percent. Luxury and demerit goods are subject to cess on top of the highest slab. He said “I think over time we will see simplification. For example, once the revenue stabilises, 28 percent 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.” Besides, he added that 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.

He also said that GST implementation has not been too bad in the first year of difficult implementation. He said “my own view is the more you rely on carrot, and less you rely on sticks, you facilitate formalisation of economy. That’s what I like about GST. It is not heavy handed. Its a kind of self policing.”

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