GST Council to meet next week virtually on e-Gaming levy

The GST Council met on July 11, 2023, and decided to levy a uniform 28% GST on online gaming, casinos and horse racing. This decision was made after a long debate, as there was no consensus on whether the rate should be lower or higher.

The GST Council will meet again on August 2, 2023, to consider legal amendments necessary for implementing the 28% levy. These amendments will be required to make online gaming, casinos and horse racing taxable actionable claims.

The Centre is likely to introduce a GST amendment bill in the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament after the council's deliberations. This bill will need to be passed by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha before it can come into force.