ASSOCHAM organises a Roundtable on GST 2.0 Reforms

ASSOCHAM organises a Roundtable on GST 2.0 Reforms

S.A.S.Nagar 1 October ( Ranjeet Singh Dhaliwal ) : The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) Chandigarh UT Development Council today organised a Roundtable on GST 2.0 Reforms at its North Regional Office in Mohali. The programme brought together policymakers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals for a meaningful dialogue on the future of GST and its role in strengthening India’s economic foundation. The session was graced by Mohamed Mansoor L., IAS, Secretary, Excise & Taxation, Chandigarh UT Administration, as the Government Speaker. Addressing the gathering, Mansoor said that the new GST reforms address long-standing issues in administration, particularly those arising from the multiplicity of tax slabs and the earlier differentiation between branded and unbranded products. These complications, coupled with input tax credit (ITC) challenges, had created compliance burdens and cascading effects, especially impacting MSMEs. “With the rationalised structure, the domestic industry is safeguarded, the cost of production comes down, and the benefit is passed on to consumers,” he noted. He pointed out that sectors such as pharmaceuticals, where many essential items are taxed at nil rates, would now enjoy greater clarity and consistency. The reforms, he added, also help curb fraudulent activities and strengthen compliance by providing FAQs and guidance material on official websites. Importantly, he assured that rationalisation would not put exports at a disadvantage. On the contrary, by reducing cost pressures and simplifying processes, GST 2.0 would enhance India’s global competitiveness and provide a much-needed boost to exporters. Sanjay Tandon, Convener GST Cell, Chandigarh; Incharge–Himachal Pradesh BJP; and Former President, BJP Chandigarh, in his address, emphasised the government’s consistent efforts to strengthen the nation from the ground up. He highlighted that initiatives across sectors—ranging from financial inclusion and digital empowerment to sanitation, water, and connectivity—are laying a strong foundation for inclusive growth. He also underlined that India’s progress in digital payments and self-reliance has received global recognition. Mr. Tandon said that the GST 2.0 reforms will further contribute to strengthening the economy and encouraged everyone to promote indigenous goods under the vision of Swadeshi. Delivering the thematic address, Rakesh Bhalla, Chairman, ASSOCHAM Chandigarh UT Council & CFO, SML ISUZU, highlighted that the reforms would particularly benefit MSMEs by reducing compliance complexities and creating a smoother business environment. Further adding to this Drishmeet Singh Buttar, Co-Chairman, ASSOCHAM Chandigarh UT Council & Managing Partner, Healing Hospital, Chandigarh, said the rationalisation of slabs would ensure greater clarity for businesses and safeguard industry growth while balancing consumer interests. A professional address by  CA Supragyae Laul, Partner, Sanjay Laul and Company, provided technical insights into GST 2.0 and discussed practical aspects of compliance for businesses. Delivering the concluding remarks, Avdheesh Goel, Director, Goel Enterprises, proposed a vote of thanks to all the dignitaries and participants, reaffirming ASSOCHAM’s role as a bridge between industry and government. He emphasised that the Chamber will continue to facilitate dialogues that support policy reforms and foster ease of doing business. The Roundtable witnessed active participation from entrepreneurs, professionals, and ASSOCHAM members, making it a vibrant platform for dialogue and collaboration on GST 2.0 reforms.