GST on E-Commerce Operator Services and Marketplace Commissions

With the rise of online shopping platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Zomato, and Swiggy, the role of e-commerce operators in India’s economy has become more significant than ever. But with that growth comes compliance—and that’s where GST steps in. In this blog, we explain the gst on e commerce operator services, who is liable to pay it, and how it impacts sellers and platforms.

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    Who Is an E-Commerce Operator?

    As per GST law, an E-Commerce Operator (ECO) is any digital platform that:

    • Facilitates the supply of goods or services
    • Connects sellers and buyers
    • Collects payment on behalf of sellers

    Examples include marketplaces (Amazon, Flipkart), food delivery platforms (Swiggy, Zomato), and ride-hailing apps (Ola, Uber).

    E-Commerce and GST: Basic Rules

    Service GST Rate
    Commission charged by ECO 18%
    Delivery charges (collected by ECO) 18%
    Listing, hosting, and tech fees 18%
    Restaurant service through ECO 5%

    So, the gst on e commerce operator services like commissions, convenience fees, and hosting charges is 18%.

    Who Pays GST: Seller or Platform?

    • Marketplace Commission – GST is paid by the platform. Sellers can claim Input Tax Credit.
    • Restaurant Orders – ECO collects and pays 5% GST on behalf of restaurants.
    • Seller Sales – Sellers are responsible for charging GST, filing GST returns, and complying with TCS provisions.

    TCS under GST for E-Commerce Operators

    Platforms must collect TCS @1% on the net value of taxable supplies and deposit it with the government.

    TCS Rate GST Type
    0.5% CGST + 0.5% SGST Intra-state
    1% IGST Inter-state

    Sellers can claim credit for TCS collected by the platform while filing GSTR-3B.

    GST Registration for Sellers on E-Commerce Platforms

    If you sell on an ECO like Flipkart, Amazon, or Zomato, GST registration is mandatory—even if your turnover is below ₹20 lakh. This is because Section 24 of the CGST Act overrides the exemption limit.

    Input Tax Credit for Sellers

    Sellers can claim ITC on:

    • Platform commission GST
    • Packaging and logistics
    • Ads paid to the platform
    • Warehouse or courier charges

    Conclusion

    Understanding the gst on e commerce operator services is crucial for sellers, platforms, and even end consumers. It ensures transparency in commissions, taxes, and compliance across India’s growing digital marketplace.

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