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Tobacco is one of the most heavily taxed products in India. Under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime, tobacco products like cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and gutkha are subject to both GST and an additional compensation cess. This dual-tax approach is designed to discourage tobacco consumption while generating revenue for public welfare.
In this blog, we’ll explain the GST rates on different types of tobacco products, applicable HSN codes, cess rates, and implications for consumers and businesses.
The gst rate on tobacco products is fixed at a base rate of 28%, which is the highest GST slab. On top of that, different types of tobacco attract additional compensation cess, which makes the total tax burden very high.
| Tobacco Product | GST Rate | Compensation Cess | Total Tax Burden |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cigarettes (length-based) | 28% | ₹1.05 – ₹4.17 per stick or 5% – 290% (ad valorem) | Very High |
| Chewing Tobacco (zarda, gutkha) | 28% | 142% of value | Extremely High |
| Cigars & Cigarillos | 28% | 21% or ₹4,170 per 1,000 pcs | High |
| Smoking Tobacco (loose) | 28% | 290% of value | Very High |
| Filtered / Unfiltered Bidis | 28% | No cess (currently) | Medium |
These rates place tobacco gst rate among the highest-taxed categories in the country
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Each tobacco product is identified under the HSN code 2402 or 2403 depending on its form.
| Product Type | HSN Code | GST Rate | Cess Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cigarettes (all types) | 2402 | 28% | Specific/ad valorem |
| Cigar & Cigarillos | 2402 | 28% | ₹4,170 per 1,000 units |
| Chewing Tobacco / Gutkha | 2403 | 28% | 142% |
| Smoking tobacco | 2403 | 28% | 290% |
| Bidis (hand/machine-made) | 2403 | 28% | NIL |
These HSN codes must be used for billing, returns, and ITC claims related to gst on tobacco in india.
The compensation cess is an additional levy on top of GST and applies to sin goods like tobacco, luxury cars, and aerated drinks. The cess on tobacco products, especially cigarettes, is extremely high to reduce consumption.
For example:
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Businesses engaged in manufacturing or selling tobacco can claim ITC on inputs like packaging, flavoring agents, and processing equipment — only if the tobacco is for resale or production.
However:
Due to high tax rates and regulatory scrutiny, businesses must ensure:
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The gst on tobacco products in india is designed to be high to reduce public consumption and support health programs. Whether it’s chewing tobacco or cigarettes, understanding the gst rate, cess, and compliance rules is critical for both businesses and consumers. Always ensure proper HSN classification and billing to stay compliant with India’s evolving GST framework.
BUSY is a simple, yet powerful GST / VAT compliant Business Accounting Software that has everything you need to grow your business.