Shimla: In a relief for apple growers and the packaging industry, the GST Council has recommended reducing the GST on all types of carton boxes from 18% to 12%.
This decision, made during the 53rd GST Council meeting in New Delhi, aims to reduce costs for both horticulturists and packaging companies.
Apple farmers, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, had been lobbying for a reduction in GST on carton boxes, arguing that the industry reuses and recycles these cartons, leading to cost savings and environmental benefits.
The state’s Industries Minister, Harshwardhan Chauhan, who represented Himachal Pradesh at the meeting, thanked the Council for supporting their plea.
He noted that this reduction would also help industries lower their working capital expenses.
The state's delegation at the meeting included Dr. Yunus, Commissioner of State Taxes and Excise. They emphasized the ongoing need to ease the compliance burden and address the grievances of small and medium taxpayers.
Reacting to the news, BJP spokesperson Chetan Singh Bragta expressed relief on behalf of apple orchardists.
He acknowledged that he had consistently raised the issue with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, using his connections with key political figures like Union Health Minister and BJP National President Jagat Prakash Nadda, Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur, former Union Minister Anurag Thakur, and MP Suresh Kashyap.
Bragta praised the decision but highlighted that he would continue to push for a further reduction to 5% GST on carton boxes, a move he believes will further benefit apple growers.
He has planned meetings in Delhi to advocate for this reduction.
The Council’s decision is expected to make carton boxes more affordable for orchardists, providing significant financial benefits.
The uniform 12% GST rate will apply across the country, easing costs and contributing to more sustainable practices in the industry.