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September 15, 2025

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GST Rates and HSN Code 9504 for Video Game Consoles

The gaming industry in India experienced swift development during recent years, particularly within the video game console sector. Tax-related knowledge about entertainment technology matters significantly to consumers and businesses since they increasingly acquire this technology. The determination of Goods and Services Tax (GST) on video game consoles depends on using HSN code 9504.

This article provides a complete guide to GST rates on video game consoles and HSN code 9504 and includes information about compliance requirements and price effects for business operations.

What is HSN Code 9504?

The globally accepted goods classification standard HSN allows both international and domestic trade operations to work with its classification system known as Harmonized System of Nomenclature. Global compliance standards become more organized through the HSN code system because it provides an efficient framework for tax document preparation.

Category: The classification includes articles for funfair games together with table and parlour games, in addition to video game consoles that do not use coins or banknotes as an operating mechanism.
Examples:

Video game consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, etc.)

Gaming controllers

Arcade machines (non-coin operated)

Gaming accessories included in the console set

GST Rate on Video Game Consoles (HSN Code 9504)

Video game consoles are listed in HSN code 9504, which comes with an 18% GST rate according to the GST Council.

HSN Code	Product Description	GST Rate
9504	Video game consoles and machines, parts & accessories	18%
9504 2000	Articles For Funfair, Table Or Parlour Games, Including Pintables, Billiards, Special Tables For Casino Games And Automatic Bowling Alley	18%
9504 30	Games, Operated By Coins, Bank Notes, Bank Cards, Tokens Or By Other Means Of Payment, Other Than Bowling Alley Equipment	18%
9504 50	Video Game	18%
9504 5000	Video Game Consoles And Machines Other Than Sub-Heading 9504 30	18%
9504 90	Other : Chess Set, All Types	18%
9504 9020	Carom Board, With Or Without Coins And Strikers	18%

What is Included Under This Rate?

Home video game consoles (Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox, Nintendo Switch)

Handheld consoles (Nintendo Switch Lite, Steam Deck, etc.)

Controllers and gamepads (if sold bundled)

VR headsets included with consoles

Console accessories (if part of the console package)

What is Not Included?

Mobile games or apps (digital downloads)

Gaming PCs or laptops (fall under different HSN codes)

Coin-operated arcade machines (fall under HSN 95043000)

Accessories sold separately (may have different HSN codes)

GST Implications for Businesses Selling Video Game Consoles

If you’re a seller, distributor, or importer of video game consoles in India, you must comply with GST regulations. Here’s how HSN 9504 and the 18% GST rate affect your business:

1. GST Registration Requirement

The registration requirement for GST applies to all businesses generating more than ₹40 lakhs turnover annually (state-specific threshold of ₹20 lakhs applies). A GST registration requirement exists for online console importation or distribution through marketplaces Amazon or Flipkart, regardless of your business turnover level.

2. Input Tax Credit (ITC)

Registered businesses can claim input tax credit on GST paid for purchasing stock (video game consoles, accessories, packaging materials, etc.), which reduces overall tax liability.

3. GST Invoicing

Every B2B or B2C sale should include:

HSN Code 9504

Product details

18% GST breakup (CGST + SGST or IGST)

GSTIN of the seller (and buyer for B2B)

4. Filing GST Returns

Dealers, along with e-commerce sellers, must submit their GST returns through GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, and other forms that contain sales and purchase invoice details with valid HSN classifications.

How GST Affects Console Prices in India

The 18% GST on video game consoles adds a significant amount to the retail price. Here's a simple example:

Base Price	GST (18%)	Final Price
₹30,000	₹5,400	₹35,400
₹50,000	₹9,000	₹59,000

The cost of gaming consoles in India exceeds other world markets because of these factors. The costs rise due to import and shipping expenses and additional fees brought by import duties.

‍Selling Consoles Online: Additional GST Considerations

Online retailers using platforms such as Amazon, as well as Flipkart and their own e-commerce websites, need to pay attention to these points:

Collect Tax at Source (TCS): The E-Commerce platforms need to implement the Tax at Source collection method under GST by deducting 1% from the transactions.

E-invoicing: Mandatory for businesses with a turnover of over ₹5 crores. It ensures invoice authenticity and faster ITC claims.

Returns and Refunds: If a customer returns a console, issue a credit note and adjust GST accordingly in your returns.

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Importing Consoles: Customs and GST Duties

Most premium consoles in India are imported. Importers should be aware of these tax components:

Basic Customs Duty (BCD) – ~10-20%

Integrated GST (IGST) – 18% under HSN 9504

Social Welfare Surcharge – 10% of BCD

These combined taxes can significantly raise the landed cost of the product.

Compliance Checklist for Console Sellers

Checklist Item	Required?
GST Registration	✅
Correct HSN Code (9504)	✅
Apply 18% GST Rate	✅
File Regular GST Returns	✅
Claim Input Tax Credit	✅
Maintain Invoices with HSN and GST Details	✅

Growth of Gaming Industry & GST Outlook

Research indicates that the gaming market in India plans to exceed $8.6 billion in value by 2027, thus keeping video game consoles highly sought after. Future GST rate assessments by the Indian government might support the growth of the gaming industry. At present, the GST rate for HSN 9504 stands unchanged at 18%.

Suggested - Section 194B of Income Tax Act - Taxes on Lottery Winnings

Conclusion

Knowledge of GST specifications and the HSN code 9504 applies equally to all participants, including importers, distributors, and small-scale online resellers involved in the video game console business. Manipulating GST compliance practices leads to business success through avoiding financial issues while permitting better corporate operations and financial supervision.

Learning about GST principles enables you to choose better game console options when buying or starting a gaming hardware business.

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FAQs

1. What is the GST rate on video game consoles in India?

Video game consoles subject to HSN code 9504 face an 18% GST rate, which applies to PlayStation console models together with Xbox and Nintendo Switch.

2. What does HSN code 9504 cover?

The HSN code 9504 covers three types of products: video game consoles, handheld gaming systems, non-coin-operated gaming machines, and gaming accessories, which are sold together with consoles.

3. Are used gaming consoles subject to GST taxation?

Yes, GST can be applicable on second-hand consoles under the margin scheme, where tax is charged on the profit margin.

4. Do I need a GST number to sell consoles online in India?

All online sellers through Amazon and Flipkart who accept customers from India must obtain a GST registration regardless of their annual revenue volume.