GST stands for goods and service tax, introduced in India on 1stJuly 2017 and replaced around 15 other cascading taxes levied by the Central and State governments. Under GST, goods and services are taxed at different rates as per the categories defined by Indian Government. Various tax slabs are 0%, 5%, 12% ,18% and 28%. There is a special rate of 0.25% on rough precious and semi-precious stones and 3% on gold. In addition to this, a CESS of 22% on top of 28% GST applies on luxury items like aerated drinks, luxury cars, and tobacco products.
GST replaced other indirect taxes and is thus set to dramatically reshape the country's 2.274 trillion-dollar economy. GST Registration is compulsory for all businesses involved in the buying/selling of products or providing services or both within India.