GST (Goods and Services Tax)
GST is a broad consumption tax on most goods and services, used in countries like India, Canada, and Australia.
Goods and Services Tax works like VAT: it is charged at each stage of the supply chain, businesses claim credits for GST paid on inputs, and the final consumer bears the tax. Implementation differs by country — India's GST, for example, has central and state components — so invoicing must follow local rules on tax IDs and rate display.
Example
An Indian supplier issues an invoice showing 18% GST split into CGST and SGST lines.
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Frequently asked questions
Is GST the same as VAT?
Conceptually yes — both are multi-stage consumption taxes with input credits. The name GST is used in India, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and others, while VAT is used in the EU, UK, and elsewhere.
What must a GST invoice show?
Typically the supplier's GSTIN, invoice number and date, buyer details, HSN/SAC codes, taxable value, GST rate and amount, and the total. Requirements vary by country, so follow your local invoicing rules.
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