Zero-Rated vs Exempt Supplies Under GST: Why the Difference Matters for Input Tax Credit
Both zero-rated and exempt supplies can result in no GST being charged on the outward supply, yet they are treated very differently under GST law and the distinction directly affects Input Tax Credit. Under Section 16 of the IGST Act, exports and supplies to an SEZ developer or unit for authorised operations are zero-rated: they remain taxable supplies, so businesses can claim ITC on inputs, input services and capital goods, and, subject to conditions, a refund of accumulated ITC. Exempt supplies are different. Under Section 17(2) of the CGST Act, ITC is not available on inputs used exclusively for exempt supplies, and where a business makes both taxable and exempt supplies the credit must be apportioned under Rules 42 and 43 with the ineligible portion reversed. An exporter of software services can recover ITC on its procurements, while a hospital providing exempt healthcare services absorbs that GST as cost. Misclassifying a supply can lead to excess refund claims, wrong ITC availment, interest and penalties, so businesses with a mix of taxable and exempt supplies should periodically review their ITC apportionment.
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