GST Rate on Painting, Artworks & Antiques

Like other sectors, GST has been also implemented in the paintings and artwork industry. Individuals involved in this business are obligated to pay GST on paintings, artworks, and antiques.

 

The GST council determines the GST rate using the HSN (Harmonised System of Nomenclature) code system in India. The current applicable GST on paintings and other artwork is 5% and 12% respectively. Chapter 97 of the HSN code contains both artwork GST rates and HSN code details.

Here’s a closer look at GST on antiques, artworks, and paintings.

Disclaimer: The rates shown above are current as of the GST (Rate) announcement no. 05/2020 dated October 16, 2020. The details about the HSN code were obtained from the master codes released on the GST e-invoice system of NIC (National Informatics Centre). Variations may occur as a result of government upgrades.

 

In addition to the above-mentioned details, there are some exclusions that are not covered in chapter 97. Below are the details about the same:

 

• Postal stationery (stamped papers), revenue stamps, or similar items with heading 4907 that havent been used as postage

• Theatrical backdrops, studio backgrounds, and similar painted canvas items (heading 5907), unless they fall within section 9706

• Natural or cultivated pearls, as well as valuable or semi-precious stones (headings 7101 to 7103)

The term "original engravings, prints, and lithographs" under the heading 9702 refers to perceptions made solely, in black and white or colour, from one or more slabs that were entirely completed by hand by the artist, regardless of the material processor he/she used, but excluding any mechanical or photomechanical process.

 

Even though these products are handcrafted or hand-developed by artists, heading 9703 does not apply to mass-produced replicas or traditional works of craftsmanship that are produced for earning revenue.

GST on painting and other artworks is 5% and 12% respectively. Chapter 97 of the HSN code contains both artwork GST rates and HSN code details of paintings and artifacts. GST has been implemented to increase tax system transparency and make the process of paying taxes simpler for customers. The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax system is a turning point in India's tax history. The tax system has clearly become easier as a result, but moving forward will require further innovation and a collaborative approach.