In order to address the issue of uneven GST on packaged sweets and namkeen (snacks) items, sweet sellers have asked the Bengal government to step in.
When Shashi Panja, the state minister for industry, commerce, and enterprises, presented the sixth edition of the World Mithai and Namkeen Convention Expo 2023 on Sunday, the sellers brought their plea for a uniform GST to her attention.
“Generally, 5% GST is levied on consumers. The GST is increased to 18% if chocolate is used to manufacture a sweet.,” stated Dhiman Das, president of Mishti Udyog and owner of K C Das Pvt Ltd.
Panja gave the manufacturers her word that the relevant authority would be contacted regarding their requests.