How Will GST Reforms Simplify Compliance and Cut Costs for MSMEs?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The GST reforms aim to simplify the tax structure with three slabs.
- Consumers will benefit from reduced rates on essential goods.
- MSMEs are expected to see lower costs and improved compliance.
- Diversification in trade is crucial for India's economic resilience.
- FDI can enhance India's manufacturing capabilities.
New Delhi, Sep 8 (NationPress) In light of the unfavorable external circumstances, particularly concerning US tariffs, the government is taking steps to mitigate the economic impact by stimulating consumption through various measures, including the GST 2.0 reforms, as reported on Monday.
The GST Council's move to streamline the tax structure into just three slabs — 5 percent for essential goods, 18 percent for standard goods and services, and 40 percent for sin and luxury items — is anticipated to reduce complexity, enhance compliance, and decrease costs for enterprises, particularly MSMEs, according to SBI Mutual Fund's report.
Consumers stand to gain from lowered rates on a wide array of everyday products, including small vehicles, two-wheelers, health insurance, agricultural tools, and cement, among numerous other items.
This new initiative follows prior efforts to boost demand, such as personal income tax reductions and relaxed retail lending policies.
Encouraged by supportive policies, sectors focused on consumers are already demonstrating strong performance in the past month, the report indicated.
While the government is expected to persist in trade discussions with the US, it may also be wise to enhance diversification towards other countries, given the US's shrinking share in global trade as it addresses its substantial trade deficit.
The recent thawing of relationships between India and China suggests a promising start for enhanced economic ties between the two nations, as highlighted in the report.
Currently, India maintains a trade deficit exceeding $100 billion with China.
If China redirects some of this surplus back into India via foreign direct investment (FDI), it could be mutually advantageous, the report suggested.
The report emphasizes that India could leverage this capital and technical expertise to expand its manufacturing sector and generate employment, while China gains access to the world’s fastest-growing economy.
However, this requires careful navigation to protect local industries from dumping in specific sectors and to uphold national interests, the report added.