GST brings down coal prices for power sector consumers

The effective coal prices including taxes have decreased by 2-3 per cent for power sector consumers following the implementation of the goods and services tax (GST). Coal attracts 5 per cent tax under the GST regime compared to the 12 per cent tax earlier. However, the prevailing local taxes, environmental taxes and other hidden charges have effectively brought down the tax rate by 2-3 per cent, instead of 7 per cent.