Core Viewpoint - India has implemented a significant reform of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), simplifying the tax structure and expanding the tax-exempt range, aiming to boost domestic production and reduce reliance on foreign goods [1][2]. Tax Reform Details - The previous four-tier tax rate structure (5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%) has been simplified to two rates: 5% and 18% [2]. - The tax rate on daily necessities has been reduced from 18% to 5%, including items like toothpaste and shampoo [2]. - The tax rate on small cars, air conditioners, and televisions has been lowered from 28% to 18% [2]. - All goods and services tax on personal life and health insurance has been eliminated, and the GST compensation tax mechanism has been fully abolished [2]. Financial Impact - The Indian Finance Ministry estimates that this reform will lead to a combined revenue loss of approximately 480 billion rupees (about 39 billion yuan) for both central and state finances [3]. Political Context - The tax cuts are seen as a response to both internal and external pressures, particularly following the announcement of a 50% tariff on Indian goods by the U.S. [4]. - A report from Citibank suggests that this tariff could reduce India's GDP growth by 0.6 to 0.8 percentage points and has led to a withdrawal of $3 billion in foreign investment within a month [4]. - The reform is strategically aimed at the middle class, with an increase in the personal income tax exemption threshold to 1.2 million rupees, allowing 85% of taxpayers to avoid taxes [4]. Self-Reliance Emphasis - Prime Minister Modi emphasized the need for India to manufacture products domestically, stating that reliance on foreign goods undermines national dignity [5][6]. - He called for increased domestic production to ensure prosperity and stability, urging citizens to prioritize Indian-made products [5][6]. Economic Growth Outlook - The reform is expected to stimulate economic growth, which is currently insufficient to meet Modi's goal of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047 [7]. - The Indian economy is projected to grow at its slowest pace in five years for the fiscal year ending March 2026 [7].

Group 1 - The Indian government has announced a reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on various consumer goods to stimulate domestic demand and counteract economic challenges posed by U.S. tariffs [1][2] - The GST structure will be simplified to two rates of 5% and 18%, down from the current four rates, addressing long-standing criticisms regarding its complexity [2] - Specific tax reductions include lowering the GST on daily consumer products like toothpaste and shampoo from 18% to 5%, and on small cars, air conditioners, and televisions from 28% to 18% [2] Group 2 - The tax cuts are expected to boost domestic consumption, with previous personal income tax cuts in February further supporting this trend [3] - Companies in the fast-moving consumer goods sector, such as Hindustan Unilever and Godrej Industries, as well as consumer electronics firms like Samsung, LG, and Sony, are anticipated to see significant revenue increases [3] - Automotive manufacturers, including Maruti, Toyota, and Suzuki, are also expected to benefit from the reduced GST rates [3]