Transforming Tax: The Case for Lowering GST on Household Insecticides

A report by EY-HICA calls for reducing GST on household insecticides from 18% to 5% to enhance preventive health outcomes and combat vector-borne diseases in India. The report highlights the public-health necessity of making these essential products more affordable and accessible, particularly for vulnerable populations.

A recent report by EY-HICA has emphasized the need for the GST Council to reconsider the tax slab for household insecticides, suggesting a reduction from the current 18% to a mere 5%.

The report argues that such a move would greatly benefit public health by enhancing the affordability and access of these essential products, which are pivotal in combatting vector-borne diseases.

With urban market penetration at 92-99% and rural penetration between 64-73%, aligning the tax treatment of these products with other essential health items could prove crucial in India's ongoing battle against diseases like malaria, dengue, and chikungunya.