---
title: "New GST for Spices 2026: 5% Rate on Masala, Spice Powders & Spices"
description: "New GST rate on spices in 2026 is 5% on all masala powders, cumin, turmeric and spice blends. Simplify GST billing with Busy and apply the right rate every time"
canonical: "https://busy.in/gst-rates/spices/"
author: "Vineet Goyal"
published: "2025-05-19T16:20:58.000Z"
category: "GST Rates"
---

-   **GST on spices in India** depends on the type of spice product, packaging status, and applicable HSN classification.
-   Certain spices may qualify for exemption depending on their HSN classification and applicable packaging and labelling conditions, while taxable spice products attract GST as per applicable provisions.
-   Whole spices and ground spices are classified under applicable HSN headings, and the **spices GST rate** depends on the specific product category and classification.
-   Spice powders and preparations such as masala mixes may attract GST based on their ingredients, composition, and applicable HSN classification.
-   Branded and pre-packaged spice products may attract GST where applicable under GST provisions.
-   GST-registered spice businesses can claim eligible Input Tax Credit on expenses used for taxable supplies, subject to GST conditions.

# New GST for Spices: Tax Rate on Whole and Ground Spices in India

India is famous for its spices, with every kitchen shelf stacked with turmeric, cumin, red chilli, garam masala, and more. Whether sold whole or in powdered form, loose or branded, spices fall under [**GST**](https://busy.in/gst/) . In this blog, we explain the **spices HSN code and GST rate**, classifications, and what makes a spice item taxable or exempt.

The applicable GST rate depends on whether the spice is branded, packaged, or processed. Below are the **revised GST rates** (no compensation cess) applicable from **22 Sep 2025**.

The **spices HSN code and GST rate** vary depending on whether the product is classified as a whole spice, ground spice, or prepared seasoning.

## **New GST Rate on Spices in India**

Spices are mainly classified under Chapter 9 of the HSN. For common spice products, such as whole, crushed, and ground spices, and simple spice mixtures, the applicable GST rate is **5%**.

The important rate distinction is not only based on whether a product is branded or unbranded, but also whether it remains a spice under Chapter 9 or becomes a prepared condiment or mixed seasoning under HSN 2103. Under the revised GST structure applicable from **22 Sep 2025**, applicable goods under HSN 2103 moved from **18% to 5%**.

## GST Rate on Spices

The **spices HSN code and GST rate** vary depending on whether the product is classified as a whole spice, ground spice, or prepared seasoning.

| Type of Spice Product | Common HSN Code | New GST Rate (After 22 Sep 2025) | Old GST Rate (Before 22 Sep 2025) | Note |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Whole spices such as pepper, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin, coriander | 0904-0910 | **5%** | **5%** | Normal Chapter 9 spice rate |
| Powdered single spices such as chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder | 0904-0910 | **5%** | **5%** | Applies when classifiable as Chapter 9 spices |
| Simple spice mixtures classifiable as spices under Chapter 9 | 0910 | **5%** | **5%** | Mixtures that continue to be classified as spices |
| Mixed condiments and mixed seasonings classifiable under HSN 2103 | 2103 | **5%** | **18%** | Prepared products under HSN 2103 moved to 5% GST |
| Curry paste, prepared seasonings, or prepared masala products | Depends on ingredients and classification | **As applicable** | **As applicable** | Rate depends on whether classified under Chapter 9, HSN 2103, or another applicable heading |

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## **GST on Ground Masala and Spice Mixes**

Common products like red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and similar single-spice powders usually stay under Chapter 9 and attract **5% GST**.

Products like garam masala, chaat masala, curry paste, mixed seasonings, and prepared spice blends may fall under **HSN 2103** depending on their composition and classification. Under the revised GST structure, such applicable HSN 2103 products attract **5% GST**.

## **How to Calculate GST on Spices**

GST on spices is calculated on the **taxable value** of the goods and depends on the product classification. Most ordinary spices under **Chapter 9** attract **5% GST**. Prepared condiments or mixed seasonings under **HSN 2103** also attract **5% GST** under the revised structure applicable from 22 Sep 2025.

GST Amount = Taxable Value × GST Rate
Final Invoice Value = Taxable Value + GST Amount

### **Example 1: Turmeric powder at 5%**

Suppose the taxable value is **Rs 5,000**.

**GST = 5,000 × 5% = Rs 250**
**Final Invoice Value = 5,000 + 250 = Rs 5,250**

### **Example 2: Whole cumin at 5%**

Suppose the taxable value is **Rs 12,000**.

**GST = 12,000 × 5% = Rs 600**
**Final Invoice Value = 12,000 + 600 = Rs 12,600**

### **Example 3: Prepared spice seasoning under 2103 at 5%**

Suppose a prepared mixed seasoning has a taxable value of **Rs 10,000**.

**GST = 10,000 × 5% = Rs 500**
**Final Invoice Value = 10,000 + 500 = Rs 10,500**

## Input Tax Credit for Spice Sellers

If you’re a GST-registered trader, manufacturer, or exporter, you may be eligible to [**claim Input Tax Credit**](https://busy.in/gst/what-expenses-can-be-claimed-as-itc/) on packaging, processing, and logistics costs incurred while selling taxable spice items.

Understanding the **gst for spices** helps food retailers, spice processors, and even households know the price breakdown better. From turmeric to garam masala, GST plays a role in how we spice up our meals.

## About the author

**Vineet Goyal**

I am a chartered accountant with over 14 years of experience. I understand income tax, GST, and balancing financial records. I analyze financial statements and tax codes effectively. However, I also have a passion for writing, which is different from working with numbers. Recently, I started writing articles and blog posts. My goal is to make finance easier for everyday people to understand.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the GST rate on spices in India?

-   **0%** for loose, unbranded whole spices
-   **5%** for most branded or packaged spices
-   **Up to 12%** for mixed or processed spice powders

### Is there GST on turmeric or red chilli powder?

Yes. Turmeric powder and red chilli powder generally attract **5% GST** when classified as spices under the applicable Chapter 9 HSN headings. The applicable GST rate depends on the product classification and composition.

### Are all spice mixes taxed the same?

No. GST on spice mixes depends on the product composition and HSN classification. Basic spice mixtures like garam masala may attract **5% GST**, while prepared condiments or mixed seasonings are taxed according to their applicable classification.

### Can spice traders claim input tax credit (ITC)?

Yes, if GST-registered and selling taxable goods, they can claim ITC on packaging, raw materials, etc.

### Is there GST on loose masalas sold in local markets?

No. If unbranded and sold loose (non-packaged), they are GST exempt.

### What is the masala GST rate?

The **masala GST rate** depends on the product classification and ingredients. Masala products classified under applicable spice headings or HSN 2103 may attract GST as per their respective classification.

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