What is the GST rate on paints in India?

The paint GST rate is 28% , which is applied to most commercial and household paints.

Are any types of paint exempt from GST?

No. All paints—oil, water-based, emulsions, and primers—are taxed under GST.

Can paint dealers claim Input Tax Credit?

Yes. Registered dealers and contractors can claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) on their purchases.

What is the HSN code for paint under GST?

Paints fall under HSN Code 3208 , taxed at 28% .

Does GST apply to painting services?

Yes. Painting services are taxed at 18% GST , which is separate from the material cost.

New GST on Paints: What You Should Know

If you’re building a new home, renovating, or running a paint business, it’s important to understand how the Goods and Services Tax (GST) affects the cost of paints. This blog breaks down everything you need to know about gst on paints in India—from rates to billing and impact on pricing.

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GST Rates

New GST Rate on Paints, Pigments & Dyes in India

The Government of India is updating GST rates effective after 22 Sep 2025. Below are the expected new GST rates for key Chapter 32 items (no compensation cess).

HSN Code and GST Classification

Product	HSN Code	New GST Rate
Paints & varnishes (based on synthetic polymers/acrylics, non-aqueous)	3208	18%
Paints & varnishes (aqueous medium; including acrylic/vinyl emulsions)	3209	18%
Dyes & colouring matter (synthetic organic)	3204	18%
Artists’/students’ colours, signboard painters’ colours	3213	18%

Note: Earlier 28% lines under paints/varnishes remain at 18% post-rationalisation. Where a product is truly a school/artist colour under 3213, the rate is 18% (not 12%). Confirm exact HSN description on the invoice/label before filing.

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Old GST Rate on Paints

(Old GST Rates – Applicable Until 21st September)

Paints are classified under HSN Code 3208 and are taxed at a 28% GST rate, which is one of the highest slabs under GST. This rate applies to most types of paints, including:

Water-based paints
Oil-based paints
Emulsions
Distempers
Varnishes
Enamels
Primers

Whether you’re buying paint for home use or stocking up as a dealer, this paint GST rate is uniform across India.

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HSN Code and GST Classification

Product	HSN Code	GST Rate
Paints and varnishes (based on synthetic polymers or acrylics)	3208	28%
Water-based pigments	3209	28%
Dyes and coloring matter	3204	18%
Artist and school colors	3213	12%

Note: Basic industrial colorants may fall under lower tax rates depending on use.

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Product | HSN Code | GST Rate
Paints and varnishes (based on synthetic polymers or acrylics) | 3208 | 28%
Water-based pigments | 3209 | 28%
Dyes and coloring matter | 3204 | 18%
Artist and school colors | 3213 | 12%

GST Compliance for Paint Dealers

You must charge 28% GST on all invoices
You can claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) on GST paid for purchases (raw materials, transport, etc.)
Make sure your bills clearly mention the correct HSN code and GST breakup

Staying compliant ensures smoother operations and helps you avoid tax penalties.

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GST on Industrial Paints

The GST on paints used in the industrial sector (like for machinery, automotive bodies, etc.) also falls under the same 28% bracket. However, businesses can recover this tax through ITC if the paints are used in the course of business or manufacturing.

Are There Any Exemptions?

Currently, there are no GST exemptions on paints. Whether it’s household paint or commercial-grade material, GST is charged without exception.

Conclusion

Understanding gst on paints helps you plan your home projects or business pricing better. Whether you’re a consumer or a dealer, knowing the tax rate ensures you’re not caught off guard at the billing counter.

Madan Murari

Chartered Accountant

MRN No.: 509164

City: Patna

Hi there! I’m a Chartered Accountant with over 20 years of experience in financial accounting and a passion for writing. I enjoy simplifying complex topics like GST and income tax, believing that learning should be a lifelong journey. I'm here to share insights and make financial matters easier for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the GST rate on paints in India?

The paint GST rate is 28%, which is applied to most commercial and household paints.
Are any types of paint exempt from GST?

No. All paints—oil, water-based, emulsions, and primers—are taxed under GST.
Can paint dealers claim Input Tax Credit?

Yes. Registered dealers and contractors can claim Input Tax Credit (ITC) on their purchases.
What is the HSN code for paint under GST?

Paints fall under HSN Code 3208, taxed at 28%.
Does GST apply to painting services?

Yes. Painting services are taxed at 18% GST, which is separate from the material cost.

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