The CBIC vide Circular No. 163/19/2021-GST dated October 06, 2021 has provided clarification regarding GST rates & classification based on the recommendations of the GST Council in its 45th meeting held on September 17, 2021.
Applicability of GST on pure henna powder and leaves:
Representations have been received seeking clarification regarding classification and applicable GST rates on henna powder and henna leaves.
As per the Explanatory Notes to HS 2017, heading 1404 is vegetable products not elsewhere specified or included. Further, as per the said Explanatory Notes, heading 1404 includes raw vegetable materials of a kind used primarily in dyeing or tanning. Such products are used primarily in dyeing or tanning either directly or in preparation of dyeing or tanning extracts. The material may be untreated, cleaned, dried, ground or powdered (whether or not compressed).
Accordingly, it is clarified that pure henna powder and henna leaves, having no additives, is classifiable under tariff item 1404 90 90 and shall attract GST rate of 5% (S. No. 78 of schedule I of notification No. 1/2017-Central Tax (Rate) dated June 28, 2017).
Further, the GST rate on mehndi paste in cones falling under heading 1404 and 3305 shall be 5% (S. No. 78A of schedule I of notification No. 1/2017-Central Tax (Rate) dated June 28, 2017).
The Circular can be accessed at: https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources//htdocs-cbec/gst/Circular%20No.%20163_18_2021_GST.pdf