In 2016, two-wheelers accounted for 78 per cent of the total automobile sales in India. However, in 2020, this contribution has fallen to 72 per cent in FY23

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) has submitted a critical representation to the GST Council, urging an immediate reduction in the GST rate on two-wheelers from the current 28 per cent to 18 per cent. 

In a press statement, FADA said that this timely and decisive intervention is aimed at making two-wheelers more affordable, reviving demand and reinvigorating an industry that has seen a significant slump in sales over the past few years.

FADA President, Manish Raj Singhania affirmed, "The two-wheeler industry is at a critical juncture, grappling with unprecedented challenges such as rising inflation, stringent emission norms and the post Covid-19 effects in Bharat of India. Now is the opportune moment for the GST Council to reduce the GST rate on two-wheelers, making them more accessible for the common man, thereby providing the much-needed boost to the industry, generating employment opportunities and fostering India's overall economic growth."

FADA's appeal has been forwarded to the Finance Minister, chair of the GST Council, all GST Council members, the Ministry of Heavy Industries, which supervises the automobile sector and the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. 

Over the past few years, the prices of various two-wheelers have risen significantly, impacting their affordability for consumers across India. This surge in prices can be attributed to multiple factors, including the rising cost of raw materials, stricter emission norms and higher taxes and levies.

For instance, the price of the popular Honda Activa has escalated from Rs. 52,000 in 2016 to Rs. 88,000 in 2023. Similarly, the Bajaj Pulsar has witnessed a substantial increase from Rs. 72,000 in 2016 to Rs. 1,50,000 in 2023. The Hero Splendor and TVS Jupiter have also experienced considerable price hikes over the same period, with their prices soaring from Rs. 46,000 to Rs. 74,801 and Rs. 49,000 to Rs. 88,498, respectively. 

The continuous rise in two-wheeler prices has consequently led to a decline in sales, emphasizing the pressing need for intervention and GST rate reduction to restore the industry's growth trajectory.

In 2016, two-wheelers accounted for 78 per cent of the total automobile sales in India. However, due to continuous price increases since 2020, this contribution has fallen to 72 per cent in FY23, underlining the impact of the steep price hike.

Reduction in the GST rate will address several critical issues facing the industry, including rural distress, the transition from BS-4 to BS-6 emission norms and the sharp increase in two-wheeler prices. Lowering the GST rate will enhance the competitiveness of two-wheelers compared to other transportation modes, thereby increasing sales and revenue for the industry.

Two-wheelers play a pivotal role in providing affordable mobility to a large segment of India's population, especially in rural areas where public transportation is sparse. 

Two-wheelers, being essential for millions, should not be categorized as sin goods or luxury items for GST taxation purposes. 

FADA anticipates that the GST Council and the concerned ministries will seriously consider their appeal and take the necessary steps to reduce the GST rate on two-wheelers.