In a move aimed at providing relief to consumers, the government has reduced GST rates on several electronic items. Following a GST Council meeting, significant adjustments have been made to the GST structure. The 12% and 28% tax slabs have been removed, and now only 5% and 18% slabs remain. This change, effective from September 22nd, will make household appliances like Smart TVs and Air Conditioners more affordable.
Previously, a 28% GST was levied on Smart TVs and air conditioners. This has been lowered to 18%, resulting in lower prices for consumers. This shift aims to reduce the financial burden on consumers, making it easier for them to purchase these essential appliances.
Let’s look at the detailed calculations to understand the price drops. We’ll analyze how prices have changed for 43-inch and 55-inch TVs, as well as ACs priced at ₹25,000 and ₹35,000. Notably, the GST slab for 32-inch TVs remains unchanged; the rate cut applies to TV models with screen sizes exceeding 32 inches.
**Price Analysis for a 43-inch Smart TV**
* Original Price (Flipkart): ₹22,499
* 28% GST: ₹6,299
* Base Price Before Tax: ₹16,200
* 18% GST: ₹4,274
* New Price: ₹20,474
* Price Reduction: ₹2,025
**Price Analysis for a 55-inch TV (₹31,999)**
* Original Price (Flipkart): ₹31,999
* 28% GST: ₹8,959
* Base Price Before Tax: ₹23,039
* 18% GST: ₹4,147
* New Price: ₹27,186
* Price Reduction: ₹4,813
**Price Analysis for a ₹25,000 AC**
* 1.5 Ton Window AC Price (Flipkart): ₹25,990
* 28% GST: ₹7,277
* Base Price Before Tax: ₹18,712
* 18% GST: ₹3,368
* New Price: ₹22,080
* Price Reduction: ₹3,910
**Price Analysis for a ₹35,000 AC**
* 1.5 Ton Split AC Price (Flipkart): ₹35,990
* 28% GST: ₹10,077
* Base Price Before Tax: ₹25,912
* 18% GST: ₹4,664
* New Price: ₹30,576
* Price Reduction: ₹5,414