GST Refund Relief for Edible Oils Likely on GST Council Agenda, Says Food Secretary

The food secretary has announced that GST refund relief for edible oil manufacturers is likely to be on the agenda for the upcoming GST Council meeting. The industry has been facing challenges due to an inverted duty structure, where the GST on finished edible oils is lower than on their inputs, leading to accumulated Input Tax Credit (ITC) that cannot be fully utilized. This has impacted the profitability of domestic manufacturers. The government is considering a policy change to allow refunds, which would provide significant relief to the sector and boost domestic production. This move is aimed at leveling the playing field for Indian producers against imported edible oils and promoting self-reliance.