Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The GST Council has announced a major rate cut under the new two-tier GST structure of 5% and 18%, replacing the earlier four-slab system. Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman confirmed that the reforms will take effect from September 22, bringing relief across a wide range of consumer goods.
Mobile Phones and Laptops
GST on mobile phones remains unchanged at 18%, meaning there will be no price cut for smartphones. Similarly, laptops continue under the 18% tax slab with no reduction.
Televisions
Televisions are among the biggest beneficiaries of the rate cut. The GST has been reduced from 28% to 18% on:
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LCD and LED TVs
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Monitors and projectors (not incorporating TV reception apparatus)
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Set-top boxes
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Other TV reception apparatus
This move is expected to bring TV prices down substantially.
Air Conditioners, Refrigerators, Washing Machines, Dishwashers
GST on air conditioners and dishwashers has been slashed from 28% to 18%, making them cheaper by an estimated ₹1,500–₹2,500 depending on the model. The same reduction applies to refrigerators and washing machines, which will now be taxed at 18% instead of 28%.
Impact on Consumers
With most large consumer electronics moving from the 28% to the 18% bracket, households are expected to save significantly on purchases like ACs, TVs, washing machines, and refrigerators. However, mobile phones and laptops remain unaffected by the rate changes.
