Sat Sep 06 02:37:41 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Indian government’s decision to lower the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on smart televisions larger than 32 inches, from 28% to 18%, is expected to significantly reduce prices and boost sales. Manufacturers like Sony, Hisense, Kodak, Blaupunkt, Thomson and LG anticipate a surge in demand, particularly for larger screens. The move is driven by the increasing adoption of OTT platforms and consumer preference for premium features, coupled with affordability options like no-cost EMIs. Industry leaders believe this tax cut will benefit consumers, retailers, and the entire smart TV ecosystem, fostering growth in India’s electronics industry and promoting digital inclusion.
**News Article:**
**GST Cut Expected to Trigger Smart TV Boom in India**
*New Delhi – September 6, 2025* – Indian consumers are poised to benefit from a significant drop in smart television prices following a recent decision by the GST Council. The council approved a reduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 28% to 18% on smart televisions, specifically LED and LCD models, larger than 32 inches. The new rates will come into effect on September 22nd.
Manufacturers are optimistic about the potential impact. Sony India’s Managing Director, Sunil Nayyar, anticipates passing on the full 8-10% benefit to consumers, leading to a projected 5-10% increase in demand, especially for 55-inch and larger models. For example, a 43-inch smart TV previously costing ₹35,000 will see a ₹3,500 price reduction due to the tax cut.
Hisense India CEO Pankaj Rana echoed this sentiment, expecting a 20-25% sales growth this festive season. He believes the tax cut will encourage consumers to upgrade to higher-end models.
Industry leaders are hailing the move as a catalyst for growth. Avneet Singh Marwah, CEO of SPPL (brand licensee for Kodak, Blaupunkt, and Thomson), emphasized the impact on digital inclusion and the broader electronics industry. LG Electronics India anticipates an uptick in sales across various electronics categories, particularly larger television sets, as the tax cut eases consumer spending.
The decision is driven by the increasing popularity of Over-The-Top (OTT) streaming platforms and a growing consumer preference for larger, feature-rich smart TVs. According to insights from Amazon and other retailers, Indians are increasingly opting for larger screens beyond 43 inches, fueled by premium features and affordable financing options such as no-cost EMIs and cashback offers. This GST reduction is expected to accelerate that trend, making smart TVs more accessible to a wider range of Indian households and significantly boosting the country’s electronics market.