Delegations from The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) have continued their campaign of meetings with representatives of the central and state governments to put forward the industry viewpoint on the proposed GST. The meetings are taking place against the backdrop of discussions in the GST Council to finalise the slab rates of the new tax and also the goods that fall within each bracket.

While extending complete support to the new levy, the delegations have explained why the industry has been seeking a complete exemption from GST on all inputs for the export industry, and why it believes that a minimal rate of 1.25% on domestic transactions would yield maximise benefits both for the government and the industry. As reported earlier, the Council has already submitted a detailed representation to the government on this.

It has been reported that the Finance Minister has announced four slabs for the GST tax ranging from 5% to 28%. No final decision on the slab applicable to gem and jewellery products has been announced.

Following earlier meetings with representatives of the state govenrments of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Telengana, the delegations have made representations to FMs from other states. GJEPC representatives also met the central government’s Finance Secretary and presented a copy of the representation.

Later, a delegation comprising Anil Sankhwal, Rahul Gupta and K.K. Duggal met Mr. Parminder Singh Dindsa, Finance Minister of Punjab and the state’s Secretary (Finance), Mr. Reddy and received a positive response.

Similarly, GJEPC representatives Anil Sankhwal, Rahul Gupta, Balram Garg and K.K.Duggal met Shri Manish Sisodia, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Government of NCT of Delhi to brief him on the same issue. He assured the delegation of his government’s support.

Most recently, a GJEPC delegation comprising Anil Sankhwal, Prakashchandra Pincha, Konal Doshi and KK Duggal met the Finance Minister of Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma to discuss the same issue. Rohan Shah of ELP, who has worked closely with the GJEPC on the issue was also present.

It is understood that the representation has been well received by the state governments, and many have expressed the opinion that GST should not increase the tax burden on any sector.

Pic Caption: GJEPC Delegation Meets Finance Minister of Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma