Consumers eager for price cuts to GST-exempt milk-based products

With paneer, chhena, and ultra-high temperature milk now exempt from the Goods and Services Tax (GST), consumers want to know if the rates of these products will be reduced by Aavin and private brands.

Consumer activist T. Sadagopan said ever since the announcement about reduction of GST rates, the people had been eager to know if Aavin and the others would lower the prices of the tax-free products. “When prices are increased, dairies make formal announcements. Aavin cited GST imposition to increase prices of flavoured milk. We expect transparency in the transaction,” he added.

C. Ranganathan of Triplicane, who buys ghee regularly for various purposes, including for his children at home, said he did not have the habit of seeing the prices of essential goods. “Nevertheless, I am happy that the GST has been reduced for several milk-based products as they pertain to the health of children. The government could have done away with GST for all such items so that they can be afforded by all,” he added.

S.A. Ponnusamy, president, Tamil Nadu Milk Dealers’ Employees Welfare Association, said there had been no information about GST reduction from any of the companies so far.