GST panel against tax relief for EV charging stations

THE FITMENT COMMITTEE of the GST Council has recommended maintaining "status quo" in the current taxation structure for electric vehicle (EV) charging services, even as the industry is batting for complete exemption or a reduction in the tax rate from 18% to 5%, according to official sources.

- PRIYANSH VERMA

Last month, industry body Ficci had called for a cut in EV charging services to make electric mobility affordable and competitive. Ficci's electric vehicle committee chair Sulajja Motwani had highlighted variation in GST rates of EVs and related products/services, and had suggested its realignment.

EVs are taxed under the 5% slab, while replacement batteries as well as charging services are taxed at 18%. "The proposed changes (reduction in rate or exemption) will make EVs more competitive...and incentivise greater adoption," she had said.