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May 7, 2026

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Charging IGST Instead of CGST+SGST on Zero-Rated Supplies

Introduction

Zero-rated supplies under GST are an important concept. Especially for exporters & businesses dealing with SEZ units. People usually get confused about which tax to apply. Should it be IGST or CGST & SGST? This article explains the correct approach. It also helps you understand why IGST is used & how the rule works in real situations. It is important to know this because even small mistakes can lead to wrong tax filing & delays in refund. This article explains why IGST is charged instead of CGST & SGST on zero-rated supplies under GST.

What Are Zero-Rated Supplies?

Zero-rated supplies are special types of supplies under GST. These supplies attract 0% tax. But they are still considered taxable. As per the GST law, zero-rated supplies include:

Export of goods
Export of services
Supply to SEZ units
Supply to SEZ developers

These are defined under Section 16 of the IGST Act. Though the tax rate is zero but businesses can still claim Input Tax Credit (ITC). This is an important benefit.

Why IGST Is Used for Zero-Rated Supplies

Zero-rated supplies are treated as inter-state supplies. This is the key reason. Under GST rules:

Inter-state supply → IGST is charged
Intra-state supply → CGST + SGST is charged

Exports and SEZ supplies are always treated as inter-state. So IGST applies automatically. CGST and SGST are not used because of this rule. Only IGST is relevant. This ensures uniform tax treatment across India.

Legal Provision Behind This Rule

The rule comes from Section 16 of the IGST Act. According to the law, zero-rated supplies fall under the IGST framework. They are eligible for refund benefits. They can be made with or without tax. The law gives two options to taxpayers:

Supply with payment of IGST
Supply without payment using LUT or bond

This is why IGST is the only tax connected with zero-rated supplies.

Two Methods of Making Zero-Rated Supplies

Supply With Payment of IGST

In this method, tax is charged first. IGST is charged on the invoice. Tax is paid to the government. Later, a refund is claimed. This method is simple but blocks working capital.

Supply Without Payment of IGST (LUT/Bond)

In this method, no tax is charged. No IGST is paid. LUT or bond is required. Refund of ITC is claimed. This method is more commonly used. It avoids cash blockage.

Why CGST and SGST Are Not Charged

CGST and SGST apply only to intra-state supplies. But zero-rated supplies are not intra-state. Exports and SEZ supplies are treated as inter-state by default. Because of this CGST is not applicable and SGST is not applicable. Only IGST applies. Also, the GST law does not allow charging both IGST and CGST+SGST together. Only one type of tax can be charged at a time.

Benefits of Charging IGST on Zero-Rated Supplies

Charging IGST (or following the IGST route) provides several benefits:

Easy refund process
Uniform tax structure
No double taxation
Better compliance
Smooth interstate transactions

Also, exporters can stay competitive in global markets because the GST burden is removed.

Refund Mechanism in Zero-Rated Supplies

Refund is a key feature of zero-rated supplies. There are two types of refunds:

Refund of IGST Paid

If IGST is paid:

Full IGST can be claimed as a refund

Refund of Unutilized ITC

If LUT is used:

ITC on inputs can be claimed

Refunds are usually processed in stages. Around 90% may be given quickly and the rest after verification.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make mistakes when they apply for GST on zero-rated supplies. Common mistakes include charging CGST & SGST instead of IGST. Not filing LUT before export. Not claiming a refund properly. Treating zero-rated supply as exempt supply.

Zero-rated & exempt supplies are different. In exempt supplies, ITC cannot be claimed. But in zero-rated supplies, ITC is allowed.

Example for Better Understanding

Suppose a company in India exports goods to the USA. It is a zero-rated supply in this case. It is treated as inter-state and IGST applies. Now the company has two choices, charge IGST and claim a refund or use LUT and not charge IGST. But it cannot charge CGST and SGST.

Conclusion

Charging IGST instead of CGST and SGST on zero-rated supplies is a basic GST rule. It is based on the concept of inter-state supply. Exports and SEZ supplies always fall under this category. The law clearly allows two options. Businesses can either pay IGST and claim a refund or supply without tax using LUT. Understanding this rule is necessary for correct GST compliance. It helps avoid errors & ensures smooth refund processing.

Also Read: Understanding Place of Supply in GST

FAQs

Q1. Can CGST & SGST be charged on zero-rated supplies?

No. CGST & SGST cannot be charged. Zero-rated supplies are treated as inter-state supplies. Only IGST is applicable. This rule applies even if the supplier & buyer are in the same state in some cases like SEZ.

Q2. Is it compulsory to pay IGST on exports?

No. It's not compulsory. You can export goods or services without paying IGST by using LUT or a bond. This option helps businesses avoid blocking their working capital.

Q3. Can the Input Tax Credit be claimed on zero-rated supplies?

Yes. ITC can be claimed. This is one of the main benefits of zero-rated supplies under GST. It helps reduce the overall tax cost for businesses.

Q4. What's the difference between zero-rated & exempt supply?

In a zero-rated supply, ITC is allowed. In an exempt supply, ITC is not allowed. Zero-rated supplies are more beneficial for exporters because of this.

Q5. What documents are required for a zero-rated supply without tax?

One needs to file a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) before making the supply. This document allows you to export without paying IGST. It must be filed on the GST portal every year.

Q6. Can a refund be claimed on zero-rated supplies?

Yes. Refunds can be claimed either for IGST paid or for unutilized ITC. The option depends on the method chosen by the taxpayer. Proper documentation is essential to avoid delays in refund processing.

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