GST winners and losers

Mumbai/New Delhi: Here’s a look at the winners and losers in India’s biggest tax reform since independence in 1947:

Fast-Moving Consumer Goods

The sector is a clear winner. Consumer staples including milk, fruits and vegetables, grain and cereals have been exempted. Sugar, tea, coffee and edible oil will be taxed the lowest rate of 5 per cent. Companies that may gain include Hindustan Unilever, Nestle India and Dabur India.

Automakers

Here the impact is likely to be marginal. Vehicles already attract different levies, which add up to 28 per cent — the peak GST rate fixed for the sector. Gains derived from a unified tax system may still be passed on to consumers, analysts say. Maruti Suzuki India, Tata Motors and Mahindra and Mahindra could benefit.

Consumer Durables

Appliances such as air-conditioners, refrigerators and washing machines will attract the peak rate, which is slightly higher than the existing tax slab. Companies may increase prices to preserve margins, Nirmal Bang Equities said in a note. Whirlpool of India, Voltas and Havells India could be impacted.

Metals, Cement

A reduction in tax on coal and metal ore to 5 per cent will cut input costs for steelmakers, benefiting companies including JSW Steel, Vedanta, Tata Steel and Hindalco Industries.

Renewable Energy

A 5 per cent tax rate on equipment like solar panels and wind turbines may help keep a lid on project costs for developers such as Inox Wind and Suzlon Energy.