New GST rates may raise property costs, say real estate developers

Real estate developers are concerned that the implementation of the goods and services tax (GST) may raise the overall cost of properties if the sector comes under the expected 18% tax slab and stamp duty is not subsumed in the new tax structure.

The GST Bill was cleared in Parliament’s budget session, paving the way for roll-out of the indirect tax regime on 1 July. According to the legislation, land leasing, renting of commercial properties and purchase of under-construction housing projects will attract GST.

The GST Council on 31 March approved nine sets of rules for implementation of the tax. It will hold its next meeting on 18-19 May to discuss the rates on individual items. Under the new indirect tax regime, there will be four tax slabs—5%, 12%, 18% and 28%.

 

Read more: Live Mint

Date: April 13, 2017 Category: Policy Tags: