GST levied on free samples
Is GST levied on free samples?
Question about the GST levied on free samples,I faced many times from my clients and colleagues because there is no special provision on this, but if you read section 7, schedule I & section 17(5) together then this confusion will crystal clear. Now let us understand how?
According to section 7 Supply includes:
All forms of supply of goods or services or both made or agreed to be made for a consideration by a person in the course or furtherance of business;
All the Activities specified under schedule I, made or agreed to be made without a consideration.
Now as per schedule I- following activities to be treated as supply even if made without consideration:
Permanent transfer or disposal of business assets where ITC has been availed, But as per section 17(5) ITC on free samples are not allowed, therefore we can conclude that this point is not able to clear confusion of taxability on free samples;
Supply of goods or services or both between related persons or distinct person (as specified in section 25)(which states that a person who is required to take registration in one or more state is considered as distinct person).
When made in the course or furtherance of business if exceeds Rs 50,000 therefore we can conclude that this point is cleared that supply without consideration made to related person is considered as supply , so we can say that supply made without consideration to unrelated person will not be treated as supply.
Conclusion: GST will not be levied on free samples distributed because it is not considered as supply also, ITC on such purchases are not allowed to the supplier.
