GST on Paper Products: Printing, Writing, and Packaging

Paper is used in education, offices, packaging, printing, and even hygiene products. But under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system, not all paper items are taxed equally. In this guide, we explain how gst on paper varies based on the type and use of paper.

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    GST Rate on Paper Products

    The paper gst rate depends on what kind of paper you’re buying and how it’s used. Here’s a quick breakdown:

    Type of Paper Product HSN Code GST Rate
    A4 paper, copier paper 4802 12%
    Books and exercise notebooks 4901/4820 Exempt (0%)
    Newspapers and periodicals 4902 Exempt (0%)
    Printed materials (non-advertising) 4901 5%
    Tissue paper, napkins, and towels 4818 18%
    Paper cartons and boxes 4819 18%
    Paper used for packaging (kraft, corrugated) 4804 / 4805 12%

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    GST on Newspaper and Books

    • gst on newspaper: 0% (Exempt)
    • Books, including school textbooks and novels: 0% (Exempt)
    • Magazines and journals (non-advertising): 0%

    GST on Tissue Paper and Paper Napkins

    • Tissue paper roll: 18%
    • Paper napkins: 18%
    • Kitchen and toilet paper towels: 18%

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    Input Tax Credit for Paper Manufacturers and Sellers

    • You can claim Input Tax Credit on raw materials, inks, and production-related services.
    • Maintain GST-compliant invoices with proper HSN codes.
    • File monthly or quarterly returns based on your turnover.

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    Common Use Cases and Their GST Impact

    Use Case GST Treatment
    Buying notebooks for students GST-exempt
    Buying A4 reams for office use 12% GST
    Selling paper bags for packaging 12% GST
    Supplying tissue rolls to hotels 18% GST
    Printing wedding cards or brochures 5% or 18% based on service

    Staying updated with applicable rates helps ensure GST-compliance and proper invoicing.

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