Changing GST rules, pending refunds continue to hamper SEZ exports

Combined exports from SEZs were Rs 5.5 trillion in 2017-18, from nearly Rs 4.7 trillion in 2016-17

Incessant changes to the goods and services tax (GST) rules, also affecting refunds, and procedural issues affect export from special economic zones (SEZs). The Export Promotion Council for Export Oriented Units & Special Economic Zones (EPCES) has listed a number of persisting procedural and regulatory obstacles.

“There have been a staggering 367 changes to the GST rules till April 15, since the new tax structure came into being last year,” EPCES Chairman Vinay Sharma said. 

A one-size-fits-all policy, he added, was not taking into account many ground realities.  

Both Arun Goyal, special secretary, GST Council, and Yogendra Garg, additional director general, Directorate