ADVERTISEMENT
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council’s recent move to rationalise tax slabs is expected to give a significant push to the consumer durables industry, with Panasonic India Chairman Manish Sharma calling it a timely reform that will expand market access and drive demand.
“The rationalisation of GST on air-conditioners and televisions from 28% to 18% is a welcome reform that will directly benefit consumers, especially as we step into the festive season. With this reduction, products that were earlier seen as aspirational are now more accessible, allowing a larger section of households to upgrade to energy-efficient and connected appliances,” Sharma said.
The Council, in its September 3 meeting, scrapped the 12% and 28% slabs, retaining only 5% and 18%. As a result, air-conditioners, large-screen TVs, refrigerators and washing machines—all previously taxed at 28%—will now attract 18%. Items earlier under the 12% slab will shift to 5% or 18%, depending on the category. For consumers, this could mean a price reduction of ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 on an AC, depending on the model.
Sharma added that the GST changes, coupled with the government’s revision in the income tax slab exempting annual earners up to ₹12 lakh, will improve disposable incomes and consumer sentiment.
“Together, these reforms create a strong momentum for the consumer durables sector, driving higher demand across urban and emerging markets. At Panasonic, we believe this will accelerate penetration of modern appliances, improve quality of life for consumers, and in turn, contribute to India’s broader economic growth momentum,” Sharma added.
August 2025
As India continues to be the world’s fastest-growing major economy, Fortune India presents its special issue on the nation’s Top 100 Billionaires. Curated in partnership with Waterfield Advisors, this year’s list reflects a slight decline in the number of dollar billionaires—from 185 to 182—even as the entry threshold for the Top 100 rose to ₹24,283 crore, up from ₹22,739 crore last year. From stalwarts like Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, and the Mistry family, who continue to lead the list, to major gainers such as Sunil Mittal and Kumar Mangalam Birla, the issue goes beyond the numbers to explore the resilience, ambition, and strategic foresight that define India’s wealth creators. Read their compelling stories in the latest issue of Fortune India. On stands now.
Industry executives believe the cut will not only drive higher volumes but also nudge buyers toward premium and energy-efficient models, which had seen slower penetration due to higher costs.
The reforms come ahead of the festive season, typically the peak period for durable sales.
Fortune India is now on WhatsApp! Get the latest updates from the world of business and economy delivered straight to your phone. Subscribe now.