Is GST applicable on zero-rated supplies?

Asked by: Miss Lera Gerlach V  |  Last update: June 30, 2026
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Yes, GST is applicable on zero-rated supplies, but at a rate of 0%. While no output tax is charged to customers, these supplies are considered taxable, allowing businesses to claim input tax credits (ITCs) on related purchases. Zero-rated supplies typically include exports and supplies to Special Economic Zones (SEZ).

Is GST applicable on zero-rated supply?

As already seen, the concept of zero rating of supplies requires the supplies as well as the inputs or input services used in supplying the supplies to be free of GST.

Can you claim GST on zero-rated supplies?

GST Returns: Zero-rated transactions must be included in your GST returns, while exempt transactions do not appear. Input Tax Credits: For zero-rated supplies, you can claim back the GST on related expenses. For exempt supplies, you generally cannot.

Is GST taxable vs zero-rated?

Taxable supply means a supply that is made in the course of a commercial activity and is generally subject to the GST/HST (including zero‑rated supplies). Zero-rated supplies are supplies of property and services that are taxable at the rate of 0%.

What are zero-rated goods in GST?

Zero rated supplies in GST are those exports or supplies to SEZ that do not attract any GST. They are beneficial for the economy as they boost exports and generate foreign exchange. They are also advantageous for the exporters as they can claim refund of the input tax credit they paid.

Lecture 2 - Standard, Zero-Rated, Exempt & Reduced Rate Goods

38 related questions found

Does zero-rated mean no GST?

Zero-rated supplies are supplies that are not subject to GST in certain situations. A rate of 0% applies to these supplies. For example, a New Zealand architect designs a building to be constructed on an overseas property for an overseas client.

Which type of goods are exempt from GST?

Cereals, edible fruits and vegetables (not frozen or processed), edible roots and tubers, fish and meat (not packaged or processed), tender coconut, jaggery, tea leaves (not processed), coffee beans (not roasted), seeds, ginger, turmeric, betel leaves, papad, flour, curd, lassi, buttermilk, milk, and aquatic feeds, and ...

Is GST-free the same as zero-rated?

Under Australian GST law some sales are GST-free. This term is generally the same as: zero rated (in other countries with VAT/GST systems) exempt (in countries with sales tax systems).

What goods are exempt from GST?

The GST/HST break includes certain qualifying goods, such as:

  • Food.
  • Beverages.
  • Children's clothing and footwear.
  • Children's diapers.
  • Children's car seats.
  • Certain children's toys.
  • Jigsaw puzzles.
  • Video game consoles, controllers, and physical video games.

What is zero-rated purchase GST?

Zero-rated supplies refer to the export of goods and the provision of international services as listed in section 21(3) of GST Act. GST is chargeable on these supplies at 0%. Please ensure that you have maintained the required documents to support your zero-rating.

How to report zero-rated sales on GST return?

Form GSTR-1 can be filed as a nil return if there are no outward supplies (including supplies on which tax is to be charged on reverse charge basis, zero rated supplies and deemed exports) during the month or quarter, for which the return is being filed for .

Is VAT charged on zero-rated supplies?

Zero-rated supplies are subject to VAT, albeit at a rate of zero percent, while exempt supplies are not subject to any rate of VAT. Consequently, businesses have the ability to reclaim the VAT paid on purchases for zero-rated supplies, which could reduce their costs and boost profits.

What is the formula for GST refund for zero-rated supplies?

Refund Amount = (Turnover of zero-rated supply of goods + Turnover of zero-rated supply of services) x Net ITC ÷Adjusted Total Turnover where, (A) “Refund amount” means the maximum refund that is admissible; (B) “Net ITC” means input tax credit availed on inputs and input services during the relevant period.

What is the difference between nil rated and zero-rated supply under GST?

To summarise, zero-rated supply is a type of GST supply where the GST rate applicable is 0%, but the supplier can still claim the input tax credit. Nil-rated supply is a type of GST supply where the GST rate is also 0%, but the supplier cannot claim the input tax credit.

What are the pros and cons of zero-rating?

Thus users of zero-rated services might benefit from its introduction, while non-users may find that their prices rise or download limits fall. The introduction of zero rating may also involve upselling as the ISP could limit zero- rated offers to more expensive plans.

What are examples of a zero-rated supply?

The following goods and services are zero-rated:

  • Exports.
  • 19 basic food items.
  • Illuminating paraffin.
  • Goods which are subject to the fuel levy (petrol and diesel)
  • International transport services.
  • Farming inputs.
  • Sales of going concerns, and.
  • Certain grants by government.

What items are zero-rated for GST?

Exports of goods or services or both together and supplies to Special Economic Zone (SEZ) units or developers are considered zero-rated under GST. Yes, one cannot claim ITC for exempt supplies as they do not attract GST, while one can claim refund of tax paid or unutilised ITC for zero-rated supplies.

What items don't include GST?

GST-Free Items:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Raw meat, poultry, and seafood.
  • Eggs and milk.
  • Bread without filling or toppings.
  • Rice, pasta, and plain cereals.
  • Cooking oils.

What are common GST mistakes?

Using the wrong tax codes or accounting method

Many GST mistakes are the result of using incorrect tax codes or the wrong accounting method: Tax codes: If a GST-free sale is coded as taxable in your accounting system, you'll pay GST unnecessarily. If a taxable sale is coded GST-free, you'll underpay.

What is zero-rated GST vs no GST?

Zero-rated – 0% GST is charged on the supply or sale of goods and services, however GST can be claimed back from IRD on goods and services purchased and used in the business. Exempt and Non-taxable activity – No GST is charged on the supply or sale of goods and services.

What is not applicable for GST?

Supply based: This type of exemption is usually applicable to suppliers involved in public-welfare or non-profit activities, irrespective of what they are selling. Example: Public utility services like water supply and healthcare related supplies are exempt from GST under this category.

What is the difference between zero-rated and exempt GST?

The taxation of exempt goods and services are similar to zero-rated goods and service in that they are not taxed. The difference between the two is that input tax credits are not allowed for expenditures incurred to make or provide the goods and/or services.

What items qualify for no GST?

Prepared foods and snacks: Vegetable trays, pre-made meals, salads, sandwiches, chips, candy, granola bars, etc. Dining: Restaurant meals (dine-in, takeout, or delivery). Beverages: Beer, wine, cider, and sake.

What are exempt supplies under GST?

It is the supply of goods and services that does not attract GST and allows no claim on ITC. Example: Bread, fresh fruits, fresh milk and curd etc. Services Tax Act, and includes non-taxable supply.

What is an example of GST exempt?

Customers do not pay GST on goods and services that are GST‑free such as basic food, many medical and health services, some education courses, childcare, certain medical aids, and exports.