The recent GST reforms have left the sports industry grappling with taxation implications. With a fiscal deficit of 6.8%, the government has introduced a 5% GST on sports equipment and 18% on tickets. This move is expected to generate ₹500 crores in revenue.
However, critics argue that it may deter fans from attending events, ultimately affecting the industry’s growth. The Indian Sports Federation has proposed a subsidy on sports infrastructure development to offset the tax burden. As the industry navigates this fiscal tightrope, it remains to be seen how the reforms will impact the sports ecosystem.