An Analytical Study on Awareness Towards GST Amongst Traders: A Case Study of Khalapur Taluka of Raigad District in Maharashtra

Abstract

Tax has been recognized as one of the main sources of governments’ income. Goods and Services Tax (GST) is an example of tax that contributes to the governments’ income. GST is a tax has been implemented in many countries such as Canada, Australia and New Zealand. GST is a tax imposed on the sale of goods and services.

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) has become one of the most prominent topics discussed since it introduced in India. GST was effectively implemented in July 2017 despite the mixed reviews received from the practitioners, general public and most important businesses. The new tax policy implemented has brought about changes in the country particularly in tax administration system and business transactions. Thus, this study examines the awareness of GST amongst traders, particularly in Khalapur Taluka of Raigad district in Maharashtra. Based on literatures and previous studies, three factors have been identified that posed the most impacts to traders towards the GST implementation. These factors are the level of knowledge, subjective norm and demographic factors of traders. This study utilised survey method in gathering the data and 150 questionnaires has been distributed to traders in the area of Khalapur Taluka. Findings from this study would contribute to a more comprehensive understanding on awareness towards GST and their impacts on traders. Also, it could be used by the relevant authorities to come up with better policies on GST or taxation in general. Practitioners or business owners and general public also could benefit from the findings in dealing with their own taxation matters.