Important Keyword: Notification No. 19/2025 Integrated Tax, IGST on tobacco, GST on cigarettes 2026, pan masala GST rate, tobacco IGST rate, GST notification 2025, GST law update India,
Words: 1077 Read time: 6 minutes.
Table of Contents
[F. No. CBIC-190349/73/2025-TRU] GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF FINANCE (DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE)
New Delhi, the 31st December, 2025
Notification No. 19/2025 - Integrated Tax (Rate): Seeks to amend Notification 09/2025- Integrated Tax (Rate), to prescribe GST rates on tobacco products.
[TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, EXTRAORDINARY, PART II, SECTION 3, SUB-SECTION (i)]
G.S.R (E).- In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 5 of the Integrated Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (13 of 2017) and sub-section (5) of section 15 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017(12 of 2017), the Central Government, on the recommendations of the Council, hereby makes the following amendments in the notification of the Government of India, Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), No. 9/2025- Integrated Tax (Rate), published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), vide number G.S.R. 642(E), dated the 17th September, 2025, namely:-
In the said notification, -
in the Schedule II – 18%, after S. No. 4 and the entries relating thereto, the following serial number and entries shall be inserted, namely: -
“4A.
2403 19 21, 2403 19 29
Biris;”
in the Schedule III – 40%, after S. No. 13 and the entries relating thereto, the following serial number and entries shall be inserted, namely: -
“14.
2106 90 20
Pan masala;
15.
2401
Unmanufactured tobacco; tobacco refuse [other than tobacco leaves];
16.
2402
Cigars, cheroots, cigarillos and cigarettes, of tobacco or of tobacco substitutes;
17.
2403 (other than 2403 19 21, 2403 19 29)
Other manufactured tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes; homogenised or reconstituted tobacco; tobacco extracts and essences [other than biris];
18.
2404 11 00
Products containing tobacco or reconstituted tobacco and intended for inhalation without combustion;
19.
2404 19 00
Products containing tobacco or nicotine substitutes and intended for inhalation without combustion;”
the Schedule VII – 28%, and the entries relating thereto shall be omitted.
2. This notification shall come into force on the 1st day of February, 2026.
[F. No. CBIC-190349/73/2025-TRU] (Dheeraj Sharma) Under Secretary
Note: The principal notification No. 9/2025- Integrated Tax (Rate), dated the 17th September, 2025, was published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), vide number G.S.R. 642(E), dated the 17th September, 2025.
Q1: What is Notification No. 19/2025 – Integrated Tax (Rate)?
Answer: It is a GST notification that revises IGST rates on tobacco and related products, amending Notification No. 09/2025 – Integrated Tax (Rate). The revised rates apply from 1 February 2026 19-2025-ITR-Eng-corri.
Q2: From which date are the new IGST rates applicable?
Answer: The revised IGST rates apply from 1 February 2026, regardless of invoice date if supply occurs on or after this date.
Q3: Which products are taxed at 18% IGST under this notification?
Answer: Only Biris (HSN 2403 19 21 / 2403 19 29) are taxed at 18% IGST.
Q4: What products are now taxed at 40% IGST?
Answer: The following products attract 40% IGST: Pan masala Cigarettes, cigars & cigarillos Unmanufactured tobacco Tobacco substitutes Nicotine / vape inhalation products
Q5: Why was the 28% IGST slab removed?
Answer: The Schedule VII – 28% has been completely omitted to simplify GST rate structure and shift tobacco products to higher deterrent tax slabs.
Q6: Does this notification apply only to interstate supplies?
Answer: Yes. This notification applies only to IGST, i.e., interstate supplies and imports. Intrastate supplies are governed by CGST + SGST notifications.
Q7: How does Section 15(5) of CGST Act apply here?
Answer: Section 15(5) allows the government to notify specific goods for special valuation or rate treatment, enabling differentiated GST rates for tobacco products.
Q8: Will this impact importers of tobacco products?
Answer: Yes. Importers must pay IGST at revised rates at the time of customs clearance. Ensure proper classification and GST compliance with Finodha GST Compliance. 👉 https://finodha.in/gst-compliance/
Q9: How should businesses update GST returns?
Answer: Businesses must: Update tax rates in billing software Report revised IGST in GSTR-1 & GSTR-3B 👉 Start filing correctly with Finodha GST Return Filing https://finodha.in/gst-return-filing/
Q10: Will existing stock be taxed at old rates?
Answer: No. GST is based on time of supply, not purchase date. Supplies made after 1 Feb 2026 attract new IGST rates.
Q11: Are e-cigarettes and vaping products covered?
Answer: Yes. Products under HSN 2404, including nicotine inhalation products, attract 40% IGST.
Q12: Does this affect GST registration requirements?
Answer: Higher GST rates increase compliance risk. Businesses near threshold should review registration status. 👉 Apply via Finodha GST Registration https://finodha.in/online-gst-registration/
Q13: What penalties apply for charging wrong GST rate?
Answer: Incorrect rate application may attract: Interest under Section 50 Penalty under Section 73/74 Avoid errors with Finodha GST Expert Support.
Q14: How does this impact pricing for consumers?
Answer: Higher IGST increases landed cost, leading to higher retail prices, discouraging consumption.
Q15: Who should take immediate action?
Answer: Tobacco manufacturers Importers Interstate wholesalers Distributors & traders 👉 Set up or restructure your business with Finodha Setup Business Services https://finodha.in/setup-business/
✅ Conclusion:
Notification No. 19/2025 – Integrated Tax (Rate) marks a major GST restructuring for tobacco products, increasing IGST to discourage harmful consumption and simplify GST schedules.
[F. No. CBIC-20013/3/2025-GST] GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF FINANCE (DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE) CENTRAL BOARD OF INDIRECT TAXES AND CUSTOMS
New Delhi, the 31st October, 2025
NotificationNo. 18/2025 – Central Tax: Seeks to notify the Central Goods and Services Tax (Fourth Amendment) Rules 2025
[To be published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i)]
G.S.R... (E). In exercise of the powers conferred by section 164 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (12 of 2017), the Central Government, on the recommendations of the Council, hereby makes the following rules further to amend the Central Goods and Services Tax Rules, 2017, namely:
—
(1) These rules may be called the Central Goods and Services Tax (Fourth Amendment) Rules, 2025.
(2) These rules shall come into force with effect from 1st day of November, 2025.
In the Central Goods and Services Tax Rules, 2017 (hereinafter referred to as the said rules), after rule 9, the following rule shall be inserted, namely: -
“9A. Grant of registration electronically. - Notwithstanding anything contained in rule 9, any person who has applied for registration under rule 8 or rule 12 or rule 17, shall, upon identification on the common portal based on data analysis and risk parameters, be granted registration electronically by the common portal, within three working days from the date of submission of application.”.
In the said rules, in sub-rule (1) of rule 10, after the words and figure "under rule 9,", the words, letters and figures "rule 9A and rule 14A," shall be inserted.
In the said rules, after rule 14, the following rule shall be inserted, namely: -
“14A. Option for taxpayers having monthly output tax liability below threshold limit. –
Any person who has made application for registration under rule 8 and who determines that his total output tax liability on supply of goods or services or both made to registered persons on account of central tax and State tax or Union territory tax and integrated tax and compensation cess, does not exceed two lakh and fifty thousand rupees per month, shall have an option to get registration electronically, in accordance with the provisions of this rule.
Any person, other than a person notified under sub-section (6D) of section 25, who has not opted for authentication of Aadhaar number, shall not be eligible for grant of registration in terms of this rule.
Notwithstanding anything contained in rule 11, a person registered under this rule in a State or Union territory shall not be eligible to obtain another registration in the same State or Union territory under this rule against the same Permanent Account Number.
Upon successful authentication of Aadhar number, the applicant referred to in sub-rule
(1) shall be granted registration electronically by the common portal, within three working days from the date of submission of application.
The registered person who intends to withdraw from the option availed under sub-rule (1), shall file an application, in FORM GST REG-32, duly signed or verified through electronic verification code on the common portal, either directly or through a Facilitation Centre notified by the Commissioner:
Provided that the registered person shall not be allowed to file such application unless he has furnished, -
returns for a period of minimum three months, where such application is filed before 1st April, 2026;
returns for a period of minimum one tax period, where such application is filed on or after 1st April, 2026; and
all the returns due for the period from the effective date of registration till the date of application for withdrawal:
Provided further that the registered person shall be allowed to file such application where no proceedings under section 29 have been initiated against such registered person.
Where there is any change in particulars furnished in FORM GST REG-01 by the person who has been granted registration under this rule, the said registered person shall get the particulars amended under rule 19 before filing an application for withdrawal under sub-rule (5).
Based on data analysis and risk parameters on the common portal, the provisions of sub-rule (4A) of rule 8 relating to authentication of Aadhaar number or biometric-based Aadhaar authentication, taking photograph of the applicant along with verification of
original copy of documents uploaded along with registration application in FORM GST REG-01, shall, so far as may be, apply to application for withdrawal filed under sub- rule (5).
The provisions of sub-rules (5) and (6) of rule 8 relating to issuance of acknowledgment, shall, mutatis mutandis, apply to the application filed under sub-rule (5).
The application filed for withdrawal under sub-rule (5), shall be verified in accordance with the provisions of rule 9.
Upon verification under sub-rule (9), the proper officer shall issue an order in FORM GST REG-33 allowing the application for withdrawal from the option availed under sub-rule (1) or order for rejection of application in FORM GST REG-05, within a period specified under rule 9, as the case may be, which shall be made available to the registered person on the common portal.
The registered person who has received an order issued under sub-rule (10) allowing withdrawal shall be able to furnish the details of output tax liability on supply of goods or services or both made to registered persons, exceeding the output tax liability as referred to in sub-rule (1), from the first day of succeeding month in which the said order has been issued.
A registered person to whom an order under sub-rule (10) has been issued, shall not amend the details furnished in respect of output tax liability so as to exceed the limit of the output tax liability specified in sub-rule (1) for the period prior to the first day of succeeding month in which the said order has been issued.
Where proceedings for cancellation of registration have been initiated by the proper officer after the filing of withdrawal application and the said proceedings are pending, the withdrawal application under sub-rule (5) shall be rejected by the proper officer and the provisions in relation to approval of application on deemed basis under sub-rule (5) of rule 9, shall not be applicable in such case.”.
In the said rules, in FORM GST REG-01, —
after the word, letters and figures “FORM GST REG-01” and before the words “Application for Registration”, for the brackets, words and figures “[See rule 8(1)]”, the brackets, words, figures and letter “[See rules 8(1) and 14A]” shall be substituted;
in Part-B, in the table, after serial number 4 and the entries relating thereto, the following serial numbers shall be inserted, namely: -
“4.1
Option for registration under rule 14A
YES NO
4.1.1
Declaration by person opting for registration under rule 14A I hereby declare that the aforesaid business shall abide by the conditions and restrictions specified in the Act or the rules for opting to register under rule 14A.”; an
under the heading ‘Instructions for submission of Application for Registration’, after serial number 8, the following serial number shall be inserted, namely: -
“8A. Any person opting for registration under rule 14A shall undergo OTP based authentication of Aadhaar number.”.
In the said rules, in FORM GST REG-02, after the word, letters and figures “FORM GST REG-02”, for the brackets, words and figures “[See rule 8(5)]”, the brackets, words, figures and letter “[See rules 8(5) and 14A]” shall be substituted.
In the said rules, for the FORM GST REG-03, the following Form shall be substituted, namely:
—
“FORM GST REG-03
[Seerules9(2),19(2) and14A]
Reference Number: Date–
To
Name of the Applicant:
Address:
GSTIN/GSTP ID (if available):
Application Reference No. (ARN): Date:
Notice for Seeking Additional Information / Clarification
This is with reference to your <<registration/amendment/cancellation/withdrawal >> application filed vide ARN <> Dated –DD/MM/YYYY. The Department has examined your application and is not satisfied with it for the following reasons:
1.
2.
3.
…
You are directed to submit your reply by......... (DD/MM/YYYY)
*You are hereby directed to appear before the undersigned on ……… (DD/MM/YYYY) at ……. (HH:MM)
If no response is received by the stipulated date or if proceedings under section 29 is initiated against you, your application is liable for rejection.
Please note that no further notice / reminder will be issued in this matter.
* Not applicable for New Registration Application and Withdrawal.”.
Signature Name of the Proper Officer:
Designation: Jurisdiction:
In the said rules, for the FORM GST REG-04, the following Form shall be substituted, namely:
Whether any modification in the application for registration or fields is required.-
Yes No (Tick one)
8.
Additional Information
9.
List of Documents uploaded
10.
Verification I hereby solemnly affirm and declare that the information given hereinabove is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief and nothing has been concealed therefrom. Place: Date: Note: Signature of Authorised Signatory Name Designation/Status
Note: -
For new registration, original registration application will be available in editable mode if option ‘Yes’ is selected in item 7.
For amendment of registration particulars, the fields intended to be amended will be available in editable mode if option “Yes” is selected in item 7.
For withdrawal from option availed under rule 14A, item 7 will be disabled.”.
In the said rules, for the FORM GST REG-05, the following Form shall be substituted, namely:
—
“FORM GST REG-05
[Seerules9(4),19(4),23(2)(b)and14A]
Reference Number: Date–
To
Name of the Applicant Address -
GSTIN/ GSTP ID (if available)
Order of Rejection of Application for <Registration / Amendment / Cancellation/ Withdrawal >
This has reference to your reply filed vide ARN --- dated----. The reply has been examined and the same has not been found to be satisfactory for the following reasons:
1.
2.
3.
…Therefore, your application is rejected in accordance with the provisions of the Act. Or
You have not replied to the notice issued vide reference no. …….. dated............................................................................................. within the time
specified therein. Therefore, your application is hereby rejected in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
Signature Name Designation Jurisdiction”.
In the said rules, after the FORM GST REG-31, the following Form shall be inserted, namely:
—
“FORM GST REG-32
[See rule 14A (5)]
Application for Withdrawal
1. GSTIN
2. Legal name
3. Trade name, if any
4. Address of Principal Place of business
5. Option for registration under rule 14A
(i) Yes
(ii) No
6. Aadhaar Authentication
(i) Primary Authorized Signatory (auto)
(ii) Promoter/Partner (auto)
7. Reason for Withdrawal
Output tax liability in respect of supply made to registered person exceeds two lakh fifty thousand rupees per month. Other -Please specify
8
Verification I hereby solemnly affirm and declare that I want to withdraw from the option availed under sub-rule (1) of rule 14A and I understand that the provisions of sub rule (4A), sub-rule (5) and sub-rule (6) of rule 8 and provisions of rule 9 relating to verification of the application and physical verification of places of business and corresponding procedures and time period shall apply to my withdrawal application. Place Date Signature of Authorised Signatory Name Designation / Status
Instructions for submission of application for withdrawal
In ‘Option for registration under rule 14A’ field, option YES will be disabled on common portal.
Permanent Account Number shall be verified with Income Tax database.
Aadhaar Authentication of Primary Authorised Signatory and one selected Promoter or Partner is mandatory.
Before applying for withdrawal from the option availed under rule 14A, all the pending returns till the date of application shall be furnished. It is mandatory to furnish returns for a period of minimum three months, where such application has been filed before 1st April, 2026, and a minimum one tax period, where such application is filed on or after 1st April, 2026.
Please ensure that no amendment application is pending at the time of filing of FORM GST REG-32.
Once FORM GST REG-32 is filed, no amendment application will be allowed to be filed till the disposal of application under FORM GST REG-32.
ARN will be generated only after successful OTP based authentication of Aadhaar number or completion of the process of biometric based Aadhar authentication along with the verification of original copy of the documents uploaded with the application in FORM GST REG-01.
Please note that filing of cancellation application will not be allowed once FORM GST REG- 32 is filed till the disposal of application.
In case the proceedings under section 29 have been initiated, application for withdrawal in FORM GST REG-32 will not be allowed to be filed.”.
In the said rules, after the FORM GST REG-32, the following Form shall be inserted, namely:
—
“FORM GST REG-33
[See rule 14A (10)]
Reference Number - <<>> Date – DD/MM/YYYY
To (Name) (Address)
Registration Number (GSTIN)
Application Reference No. (ARN) Dated – DD/MM/YYYY Order of withdrawal from option availed under sub-rule (1) of rule 14A
This has reference to your application number------ dated submitted under sub- rule (6) of rule 14 A regarding withdrawal from the option availed under sub-rule (1) of rule 14A. Your application has been examined and the same has been accepted under the provisions of sub-rule
(11) of rule 14A. ct. The amended certificate of registration is available on your dashboard for download.
Signature Name Designation Jurisdiction
Date:
Place:”.
[F. No. CBIC-20013/3/2025-GST] (Kangale Shrunkhala Motiram) Director
Note: The principal rules were published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub- section (i), vide notification No. 3/2017-Central Tax, dated the 19th June, 2017, published, vide number
G.S.R. 610(E), dated the 19th June, 2017 and were last amended, vide notification No. 13/2025– Central Tax, dated the 17th September, 2025, vide number G.S.R. 672(E), dated the 17th September, 2025.
📚 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): NotificationNo. 18/2025 – Central Tax
Q1: What is Notification No. 18/2025 – Central Tax?
Answer: Notification No. 18/2025 – Central Tax notifies the CGST (Fourth Amendment) Rules, 2025 under Section 164 of the CGST Act, 2017. It introduces new rules such as Rule 9A and Rule 14A, aiming to simplify GST registration and compliance.
Q2: From when is Notification No. 18/2025 applicable?
Answer: The notification is effective from 1st November 2025, as clearly stated in the Gazette notification.
Q3: What is Rule 9A introduced under this notification?
Answer: Rule 9A allows automatic electronic GST registration within 3 working days, based on system-driven risk analysis—without officer intervention in low-risk cases. 📌 This significantly reduces delays faced by startups and MSMEs.
Q4: Who benefits the most from Rule 9A?
Answer: Startups Small service providers Freelancers MSMEs New entrepreneurs 👉 Setting up a business? Explore Finodha Business Setup Services: https://finodha.in/setup-business/
Q5: What is Rule 14A under Notification No. 18/2025?
Answer: Rule 14A introduces an optional registration mechanism for taxpayers whose monthly output tax liability does not exceed ₹2.5 lakh. This helps small taxpayers avoid unnecessary scrutiny while staying compliant.
Q6: Is Aadhaar authentication mandatory under Rule 14A?
Answer: Yes ✅. Aadhaar authentication is mandatory. Taxpayers not opting for Aadhaar authentication are not eligible for registration under Rule 14A.
Q7: Can I have multiple GST registrations under Rule 14A?
Answer: No. A taxpayer cannot obtain more than one GST registration in the same State/UT under Rule 14A for the same PAN.
Q8: What happens if my monthly tax liability exceeds ₹2.5 lakh later?
Answer: You must withdraw from Rule 14A by filing FORM GST REG-32. Once approved, normal GST provisions apply from the next month.
Q9: What is FORM GST REG-32?
Answer: FORM GST REG-32 is used to withdraw from the optional registration under Rule 14A. It requires: Filing of pending returns Aadhaar authentication Declaration of reason for withdrawal 👉 Filing returns regularly helps avoid rejection. Start with Finodha GST Return Filing: https://finodha.in/gst-return-filing/
Q10: Are there conditions before filing withdrawal application?
Answer: Yes. You must: File minimum 3 months’ returns (before 1-Apr-2026) File minimum 1 tax period return (after 1-Apr-2026) Ensure no Section 29 cancellation proceedings are pending
Q11: What is FORM GST REG-33?
Answer: FORM GST REG-33 is the approval order issued by the GST officer allowing withdrawal from Rule 14A. The updated GST certificate becomes available online.
Q12: Does Notification No. 18/2025 affect existing GST registrations?
Answer: No direct impact. Existing registrations continue normally unless the taxpayer opts for Rule 14A or applies for withdrawal.
Q13: How does this notification improve GST compliance?
Answer: Faster approvals ⏱️ Reduced officer interaction Risk-based scrutiny Digital-first compliance This aligns with Ease of Doing Business in India.
Q14: Is this similar to the Composition Scheme?
Answer: No ❌. Rule 14A is not a composition scheme. Taxpayers continue to: Charge GST normally File regular returns Avail ITC (if eligible)
Q15: How can Finodha help under Notification No. 18/2025?
Answer: Finodha provides: GST Registration & Amendments GST Return Filing & Compliance MSME / Udyam Registration DSC & Aadhaar-based authentication support 👉 Talk to a Finodha GST Expert today: https://finodha.in/gst-compliance/
✅ Conclusion:
Notification No. 18/2025 – Central Tax is a progressive reform aimed at speed, simplicity, and trust-based GST compliance. If used correctly, it can significantly reduce registration delays and compliance burdens for small taxpayers.
Important Keyword: GST RSP valuation, Section 15(5) CGST, GST on tobacco, pan masala GST, RSP based GST valuation, GST notification 2025,
Words: 1373 Read time: 7 minutes.
Table of Contents
[F. No. CBIC-20001/2/2025-GST] GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF FINANCE (DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE) CENTRAL BOARD OF INDIRECT TAXES AND CUSTOMS
New Delhi, the 31st day of December, 2025
Notification No. 19/2025 – Central Tax: Seeks to notify supplies under section 15(5) of CGST Act for valuation based on Retail sale price (RSP)
[TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE OF INDIA, EXTRAORDINARY, PART II, SECTION 3, SUB- SECTION (i)]
G.S.R. (E).– In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (5) of section 15 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (12 of 2017), the Government, on the recommendations of the Council, hereby makes the following amendment in the notification of the Government of India in the Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue) No. 49/2023-Central Tax, dated the 29th September, 2023 published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i) vide number G.S.R. 705(E), dated the 29th September, 2023, namely: —
In the said notification, after clause (iii), the following clause shall be inserted, namely: —
"(iv) supply of the following goods bearing the description specified in column (3), falling under the corresponding Chapter/ heading/ sub-heading/ tariff item specified in column (2), of the Table below, on which retail sale price is declared : -
Table
S. No.
Chapter / Heading /Sub-heading / Tariff item
Description of Goods
(1)
(2)
(3)
1.
2106 90 20
Pan masala
2.
2401
Unmanufactured tobacco; tobacco refuse [other than tobacco leaves]
3.
2402
Cigars, cheroots, cigarillos and cigarettes, of tobacco or of tobacco substitutes
4.
2403
Other manufactured tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes; “homogenised” or “reconstituted” tobacco; tobacco extracts and essences (other than biris)
5.
2404 11 00
Products containing tobacco or reconstituted tobacco and intended for inhalation without combustion
6.
2404 19 00
Products containing tobacco or nicotine substitutes and intended for inhalation without combustion
Explanation. - For the purposes of this clause, —
"retail sale price" means the maximum price declared on goods at which such goods in packaged form may be sold to the ultimate consumer and includes all taxes, duties, surcharge or cess, by whatever name called;
where on the package of any specified goods more than one retail sale price is declared, the maximum of such retail sale price shall be deemed to be the retail sale price;
where the retail sale price declared on packages of any specified goods is altered to increase the retail sale price at any stage before, during, or after the supply, such altered retail sale price shall be deemed to be the retail sale price;
where different retail sale prices are declared on different packages for the sale of any specified goods above in packaged form in different areas, each such retail sale price shall be the retail sale price for the purposes of valuation of the specified goods intended to be sold in the area to which the retail sale price relates.
“tariff item”, “heading”, “sub-heading” and “Chapter” shall mean respectively a tariff item, heading, sub-heading, and Chapter as specified in the First Schedule to the Customs Tariff Act, 1975 (51 of 1975);
the rules for the interpretation of the First Schedule to the Customs Tariff Act, 1975 (51 of 1975), including the Section and Chapter Notes and the General Explanatory Notes of the First Schedule shall, so far as may be, apply to the interpretation of this clause.”
2. This notification shall come into force on the 1st day of February 2026.
[F. No. CBIC-20001/2/2025-GST] (Kriti Pandey) Under Secretary
Note: The principal notification was published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i) vide notification No. 49/2023-Central Tax, dated the 29th September, 2023, published vide number G.S.R. 705(E), dated the 29th September, 2023.
Q1: What is Notification No. 19/2025 – Central Tax?
Answer: Notification No. 19/2025 – Central Tax notifies additional goods for GST valuation based on Retail Sale Price (RSP) under Section 15(5) of the CGST Act, 2017, effective from 1 February 2026 19-2025-ct.
Q2: Which law allows GST valuation on RSP instead of transaction value?
Answer: Section 15(5) of the CGST Act, 2017 empowers the Government to notify specific goods where GST value is determined as per prescribed rules, including RSP-based valuation.
Q3: From which date is RSP-based valuation applicable?
Answer: RSP-based valuation applies from 1st February 2026, as explicitly stated in Notification No. 19/2025 – Central Tax.
Q4: What is meant by “Retail Sale Price (RSP)” under this notification?
Answer: RSP means the maximum price declared on the package, inclusive of all taxes, duties, cess, and surcharges, at which goods may be sold to the ultimate consumer.
Q5: If multiple RSPs are printed on a package, which one applies?
Answer: The highest RSP printed on the package shall be deemed as the Retail Sale Price for GST valuation purposes.
Q6: What if RSP is increased after packaging but before sale?
Answer: If RSP is altered upward at any stage, the revised higher RSP will be treated as the valuation base for GST.
Q7: Does area-wise different RSP affect GST valuation?
Answer: Yes. Where different RSPs are declared for different areas, GST valuation will be based on the RSP applicable to that specific area.
Q8: Is transaction value completely irrelevant after this notification?
Answer: For notified goods, yes. Transaction value under Section 15(1) becomes irrelevant. GST must be calculated only on RSP basis.
Q9: Does this apply to loose or unpackaged goods?
Answer: No. The notification applies only to goods in packaged form where RSP is declared.
Q10: How does this impact GST invoicing?
Answer: Invoices must: Reflect GST charged on RSP-based value Align with HSN classification Match declared RSP to avoid mismatch during audits 👉 Ensure accurate invoicing via Finodha GST Return Filing Services: https://finodha.in/gst-return-filing/
Q11: Will Input Tax Credit (ITC) be affected?
Answer: No direct restriction on ITC is imposed by this notification. However, valuation disputes may lead to ITC reversals if RSP compliance is incorrect.
Q12: Is this similar to excise-duty MRP valuation?
Answer: Yes 👍. This mirrors the earlier excise-duty MRP-based taxation, now implemented within the GST framework.
Q13: Who will be most impacted by Notification No. 19/2025?
Answer: Tobacco manufacturers Cigarette distributors Pan masala traders Nicotine & vaping product suppliers 👉 If you’re setting up or restructuring such a business, consult Finodha Business Setup Experts: https://finodha.in/setup-business/
Q14: What penalties can arise for non-compliance?
Answer: Demand under Section 73/74 Interest under Section 50 Penalties for mis-declaration of value or RSP
Q15: How can Finodha help with RSP-based GST compliance?
Answer: Finodha assists with: GST valuation advisory Return filing & audits HSN classification support MSME & DSC registration 👉 Speak to a Finodha GST Expert today: https://finodha.in/gst-compliance/
✅ Conclusion
Notification No. 19/2025 – Central Tax is a decisive move to curb undervaluation and tax leakage in high-risk goods. Businesses dealing in pan masala, tobacco, cigarettes, and nicotine products must re-engineer pricing, packaging, and GST computation before 1 February 2026.
[TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZZETE OF INDIA, EXTRAORDINARY, PART II, SECTION 3. SUB-SECTION (i)]
[F. No. CBIC-190341/168/2025-TRU] GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF FINANCE (DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE)
Notification No. 18/2025- Central Tax (Rate): Seeks to amend notification No. 26/2018-Central Tax (Rate) dated 31.12.2018.
New Delhi, the 24th October, 2025
G.S.R……(E).- In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 11 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (12 of 2017), the Central Government, on the recommendations of the Council, hereby makes the following further amendments in the notification of the Government of India, in the Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), No. 26/2018-Central Tax (Rate), dated the 31 December, 2018, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), vide number G.S.R. 1263(E), dated the 31st December, 2018, namely:-
In the said notification, in the Explanation, for clause (c), the following clause shall be substituted, namely: -
"(c) "Nominated Agency" means entities mentioned in Lists 13, 14 and 15 appended to Table I of notification No. 45/2025-Customs, dated the 24th October, 2025 published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part 11, Section 3 Sub-section (i);"
This notification shall come into force on the Ist day of November, 2025.
(Dheeraj Sharma) Under Secretary to Government of India
Q1: What is Notification No. 18/2025 – Central Tax (Rate)?
Answer: It amends the CGST Rules, 2017 to introduce: Rule 9A: Automatic electronic GST registration Rule 14A: Special optional registration for taxpayers with output tax below ₹2.5 lakh/month These changes simplify GST registration and reduce approval time. Need GST registration help? 👉 https://finodha.in/online-gst-registration/
Q2: What is Rule 9A and why is it important?
Answer: Rule 9A allows GST registration to be granted electronically within 3 working days by the GST portal using: Risk profiling Data analytics Automated decision-making This avoids manual delays and officer dependency.
Q3: Who can receive automatic registration under Rule 9A?
Answer: Applicants under: Rule 8 (normal registration) Rule 12 (TDS/TCS registration) Rule 17 (Non-Resident persons) Example: A small IT consultant applying for GST gets auto-approval in 3 days without physical verification.
Q4: What is Rule 14A under Notification No. 18/2025?
Answer: Rule 14A allows small B2B suppliers with monthly tax liability ≤ ₹2,50,000 to obtain faster electronic registration, but only if: Aadhaar authentication is completed They are not in a high-risk category They comply with filing conditions
Q5: Is Aadhaar authentication mandatory under Rule 14A?
Answer: ✔ Yes. Applicants must undergo OTP-based Aadhaar authentication, otherwise Rule 14A benefits cannot be availed. Get help with Aadhaar authentication issues: 👉 https://finodha.in/gst-compliance/
Q6: What happens if tax liability goes above ₹2.5 lakh after opting for Rule 14A?
Answer: The taxpayer must withdraw from Rule 14A registration using FORM GST REG-32, and then follow normal GST rules.
Q7: Can a taxpayer have multiple GST registrations under Rule 14A in one State?
Answer: ❌ No. Rule 14A prohibits more than one registration under the same PAN in the same State/UT.
Q8: What are the conditions for withdrawing registration under Rule 14A?
Answer: To withdraw, the taxpayer must: File returns for minimum 3 months (before Apr 2026) OR File at least 1 return (after Apr 2026) Clear all pending returns Ensure no cancellation proceedings under Section 29 are ongoing
Q9: How long does Rule 14A withdrawal processing take?
Answer: The officer must issue: REG-33 (approved) OR REG-05 (rejected) within timelines mentioned in Rule 9.
Q10: Does Rule 14A affect business setup for small firms?
Answer: Yes. Small suppliers with limited B2B turnover get: Simple verification Faster approval Lower compliance burden Need help with company setup? 👉 https://finodha.in/setup-business/
Q11: What if Aadhaar authentication fails during Rule 14A registration?
Answer: Then biometric authentication or physical verification may be required as per Rule 8(4A).
Q12: How does Notification 18/2025 benefit startups?
Answer: Startups often begin with low turnover. Rule 14A: Speeds up registration Reduces initial compliance pressure Helps get GSTIN quickly to start invoicing clients Get your Pvt Ltd registered quickly → 👉 https://finodha.in/private-limited-company/
Q13: Are any forms modified through this notification?
Answer: Yes. Major forms updated: REG-01 REG-02 REG-03 REG-04 REG-05 REG-32 REG-33
Q14: What is the threshold for opting Rule 14A?
Answer: Your monthly output tax liability must be ≤ ₹2,50,000 (including CGST, SGST, IGST & Cess).
Q15: Is Rule 14A compulsory for low-output suppliers?
Answer: ❌ No. Rule 14A is optional, not mandatory.
Q16: Does this notification change GST tax rates?
Answer: No. Despite being titled “Central Tax (Rate)”, this notification only amends GST Rules, not tax rates.
⭐ Conclusion
Notification No. 18/2025 – Central Tax (Rate) is one of the most impactful updates of 2025. With electronic registration (Rule 9A) and simplified registration for low-output suppliers (Rule 14A), GST compliance becomes faster and more business-friendly.
If you want help with:
✔ GST registration ✔ Aadhaar authentication ✔ GST amendments ✔ Return filing ✔ New business setup
Important Keyword: Notification No. 18/2025 – Union Territory Tax (Rate), UTGST amendment 2025, Nonaligned Agency UTGST, Notification 26/2018 UTGST update, Customs List 13, UTGST rate changes, GST UT notifications, Finodha GST services.
Words: 1097; Read time: 6 minutes.
Table of Contents
[TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZZETE OF INDIA, EXTRAORDINARY, PART II, SECTION 3, SUB-SECTION (i)]
[F. No. CBIC-190341/168/2025-TRU] GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF FINANCE (DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE)
Notification No. 18/2025 - Union Territory Tax (Rate): Seeks to amend notification No. 26/2018 - Union Territory Tax (Rate) dated 31.12.2018
New Delhi, the 24th October, 2025
G.S.R……(E).- In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 8 of the Union Territory Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017 (14 of 2017), the Central Government, on the recommendations of the Council, hereby makes the following further amendments in the notification of the Government of India, in the Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), No. 26/2018-Union Territory Tax (Rate), dated the 31st December, 2018, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), vide number G.S.R. 1269(E), dated the 31st December, 2018, namely:-
In the said notification, in the Explanation, for clause (c), the following clause shall be substituted, namely: -
"(c) "Nominated Agency" means entities mentioned in Lists 13, 14 and 15 appended to Table I of notification No. 45/2025-Customs, dated the 24th October, 2025 published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3 Sub-section (i);"
This notification shall come into force on the 1st day of November, 2025.
(Dheeraj Sharma) Under Secretary to Government of India
Note: - The principal notification No. 26/2018-Union Territory Tax (Rate), dated the 31st of December, 2018 was published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), vide number G.S.R. 1269(E), dated the 31st December, 2018 and was last amended vide notification No. 10/2023-Union Territory Tax (Rate), dated the 26th July, 2023 published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i) vide number G.S.R. 552(E), dated the 26th July, 2023.
Q1: What is Notification No. 18/2025 – Union Territory Tax (Rate)?
Answer: It amends Notification No. 26/2018 – UTGST (Rate) by adding a new clause defining “Nonaligned Agency” with reference to List 13 of Customs Notification No. 45/2025-Customs. 18-2025-UTR-Eng This ensures consistency between UTGST rate schedules and Customs classifications.
Q2: What is the meaning of “Nonaligned Agency” under this amendment?
Answer: A Nonaligned Agency is now defined as: An agency listed under List 13 of Customs Notification 45/2025. A body for which special conditional tax treatment may apply under UTGST/IGST/Customs. This new definition creates uniformity across Customs and UTGST for classification & tax applicability.
Q3: Why was the UTGST rate notification amended?
Answer: Because UTGST, IGST, CGST, and Customs notifications must stay synchronised. By defining “Nonaligned Agency”: Classification is standardised Exemptions & concessional rates apply uniformly Import-linked benefits extend to UTGST taxpayers
Q4: What is the relevance of Notification No. 45/2025-Customs?
Answer: Notification 45/2025-Customs contains List 13, which identifies specific agencies enjoying concessional duties. Notification 18/2025-UTGST now aligns itself with this list.
Q5: Which taxpayers are impacted by this change?
Answer: ✔ Importers operating from Union Territories ✔ Government or semi-government agencies listed in List 13 ✔ NGOs and multilateral organisations classified as “Nonaligned Agencies” ✔ Suppliers providing goods/services to such agencies
Q6: Does this notification change UTGST tax rates?
Answer: ❌ No. It does not change the tax rate. It only adds a definition and clarifies applicability of existing rates/exemptions.
Q7: Does this affect GST return filing?
Answer: No direct impact. But if you supply to a Nonaligned Agency, classification or exemption claims in GSTR-1 & GSTR-3B may change. For return filing help: 👉 https://finodha.in/gst-return-filing/
Q8: Which Union Territories are covered under UTGST?
Answer: As per the notification: 👉 This notification comes into force on 25 October 2025. 18-2025-UTR-Eng
Q10: Does this affect businesses with inter-state supply in UTs?
Answer: Indirectly ✔ If you supply to an agency in UTs that falls under “Nonaligned Agency,” the classification for tax rate, exemption, or reverse charge applicability may change.
Q11: Is any compliance action required from normal taxpayers?
Answer: Mostly No. But if your business deals with import-linked supply chains or government contracts, classification updates may be required. Need classification help? 👉 https://finodha.in/gst-compliance/
Q12: How does this link UTGST with Customs law?
Answer: By adopting the definition from Customs Notification 45/2025 (List 13), UTGST becomes aligned with Customs exemptions and benefit schedules.
Q13: What is an example of a “Nonaligned Agency”?
Answer: Sample examples (depending on List 13): International developmental organisations Research agencies Multilateral bodies under specific agreements Organisations receiving customs-related exemptions
Q14: Does Notification No. 18/2025 impact GST registration?
Q15: Will suppliers to Nonaligned Agencies need special documentation?
Answer: Possibly ✔ Suppliers may need: Agency declaration Eligibility certificate under List 13 Correct HSN coding Exemption or concessional rate justification Finodha can help prepare documentation → 👉 https://finodha.in/gst-compliance/
⭐ Conclusion
Notification No. 18/2025 – Union Territory Tax (Rate) ensures UTGST rules stay aligned with Customs laws by incorporating the definition of “Nonaligned Agency” from Notification 45/2025-Customs. This creates uniformity and clarity in exemption handling, especially for import-based agencies operating in Union Territories.
To stay 100% compliant with changing GST & UTGST rules: