In India, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has been implemented to simplify the taxation system. For the electronics industry, it is essential to understand the GST rates and regulations to ensure compliance. There is no single GST rate, and no single HSN code, for "electronics". Electronic goods sit in Chapters 84 and 85 of the Customs Tariff, each with its own heading and rate. As at 22 September 2025 the main consumer categories are all at 18%: mobile phones and smartphones (8517, smartphones 8517 13 00), laptops, notebooks and tablets (8471), televisions, monitors and projectors (8528), air conditioners (8415), refrigerators (8418), washing machines (8450), headphones and speakers (8518), cameras (8525), printed circuits (8534) and mobile phone chargers (8504). Exceptions exist — for example electric-vehicle chargers and walkie-talkies for defence and police are 5%. The earlier conflation of the whole category with HSN 8517 (telephone sets) was incorrect. The effective date of this rate is July 1, 2017.
The table below provides a brief description of the goods and services, along with the applicable GST percentage slab and relevant HSN/SAC code.
| Goods/Services | HSN/SAC Code | GST Percentage Slab |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile phones and smartphones | 8517 (smartphones 8517 13 00) | 18% |
| Laptops, notebooks, tablets | 8471 | 18% |
| Televisions, monitors, projectors | 8528 | 18% (28% before 22 September 2025) |
| Air conditioners | 8415 | 18% (28% before 22 September 2025) |
| Refrigerators | 8418 | 18% |
| Washing machines | 8450 | 18% |
| Headphones and speakers | 8518 | 18% |
| Cameras | 8525 | 18% |
| Printed circuits (PCBs) | 8534 | 18% |
To calculate the total GST amount, you can use our GST calculator widget. Simply input the base price, and the calculator will display the total GST amount.
The GST Act provides two schemes for taxpayers: the composition scheme and the regular scheme. The composition scheme is a simplified scheme for small taxpayers, with a turnover of up to ₹1.5 crore. Under this scheme, the taxpayer pays a fixed percentage of their turnover as GST, without input tax credit.
The regular scheme, on the other hand, is for taxpayers with a turnover above ₹1.5 crore. Under this scheme, the taxpayer pays GST on their taxable supplies and can claim input tax credit on their purchases.
The table below compares the two schemes:
| Scheme | Turnover Limit | GST Rate | Input Tax Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composition Scheme | Up to ₹1.5 crore (goods) / ₹50 lakh (services) | 1% (goods) or 6% (services under section 10(2A)) | Not available |
| Regular Scheme | Above ₹1.5 crore | 18% | Available |
Before the implementation of GST, the taxation system in India was complex, with multiple taxes levied by the central and state governments. The pre-GST regime had a tax rate of around 26.5% for electronics, including central excise duty, value-added tax (VAT), and other taxes.
Under the GST regime, the tax rate for electronics is 18%, which is lower than the pre-GST rate. However, the GST rate is applicable across the country, making it easier for businesses to comply with the tax laws.
The table below compares the pre-GST and GST rates for electronics:
| Regime | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Pre-GST | 26.5% |
| GST | 18% |
Q: Can I claim input tax credit on my purchases of electronics?
A: Yes, you can claim input tax credit on your purchases of electronics, if you are registered under the regular scheme.
Q: How can I claim input tax credit?
A: You can claim input tax credit by filing Form GSTR-3B and Form GSTR-2A, and by paying the tax liability.
To avoid common billing mistakes associated with electronics GST, follow these compliance tips:
By following these tips, you can ensure compliance with the GST laws and avoid any penalties or fines.
In conclusion, the GST rate for electronics in India is 18%, with an HSN code of 8517. It is essential to understand the GST regulations and comply with the tax laws to avoid any penalties or fines. By using our GST calculator widget and following the compliance tips, you can ensure that you are paying the correct amount of GST and claiming the eligible input tax credit.
18%
8517
July 1, 2017
Yes, subject to government notifications
To classify and identify goods for GST purposes
Rate position checked against the CBIC rate notifications (Notification No. 9/2025-Central Tax (Rate) dated 17 September 2025, effective 22 September 2025, and the notifications it supersedes) and the GST Council's 56th meeting recommendations.
