In this episode, host Alokita Tangri breaks down one of the biggest tax reforms since GST’s introduction in 2017 — the government’s announcement of GST 2.0.

The reform simplifies India’s complex multi-slab GST structure into just two primary rates — 5% and 18% — plus a 40% slab for luxury and sin goods. This change is expected to impact household budgets, state revenues, MSME compliance, pricing strategies, and major sectors like FMCG, automobiles, real estate, hospitality, and digital services.

To help us understand the impact of GST 2.0, we are joined by two leading indirect tax experts — Maulik Manakiwala and Karthik Mani, both Partners at BDO India LLP.

Together, we explore:

– How the new GST slabs compare to the old four-tier system

– Impact on everyday products — from toiletries to electronics — and household budgets

– The rationale behind the 40% slab for luxury and sin goods

– Economic and policy objectives driving this reform

– Compliance challenges and opportunities for MSMEs and corporates

– How sectors like FMCG, automobiles, real estate, and hospitality will be affected

Key strategies for businesses to manage pricing, stock, billing, and anti-profiteering obligations during this transition

Whether you’re a business owner, tax professional, policymaker, or consumer, this episode will help you understand what GST 2.0 means for India’s economy and for you.