Business

India’s landmark GST 2.0 reform is set to reshape household budgets, small business margins, and festive shopping trends. With a simplified structure of 5% for essentials, 18% for most goods, and 40% for luxury and sin items, the overhaul promises relief on daily expenses while making premium consumption costlier. Middle-class families may see cheaper packaged goods, clothes, and electronics, while weddings and high-end services become more expensive. For MSMEs, the reform eases compliance but brings sector-specific challenges. As festivals approach, GST 2.0 will be the first real test of how consumers and businesses adjust to this new tax landscape.