Amid frequent discussions around tax treatment on different products of popcorn, here is a detailed analysis of how much tax you will have to pay while purchasing the item in movie theatres.

In the 55th meeting of the GST Council, a clarification was provided regarding the applicability of GST on popcorn. This followed a request from Uttar Pradesh seeking clarification on the classification and applicable GST rate for mixed popcorn that includes salt and spices.

India's move to tax popcorn differently based on its sugar or spice content has drawn criticism from the opposition and sparked social media outrage, with two former government economic advisers questioning the tax system introduced in 2017.

The 55th meeting of the GST Council clarified the GST applicable for popcorn after a clarification request from Uttar Pradesh on popcorn mixed with salt, spices

Social media users slam country’s excessive regulations and high taxation after government’s move to impose three-tier tax on popcorn.

Popcorn sold in loose form in movie theatres will continue to attract a GST rate of 5 per cent. If popcorn is sold together with a movie ticket, it will be taxed at the rate applicable to the ticket.

The GST Council's popcorn tax classification for popcorn raises questions about ingredient-based taxation, sparking criticism from economists and consumers alike.

Popcorn, in loose form, sold in movie theatres will continue to attract GST at a 5 per cent rate, same as in restaurants, government sources said.

During its 55th meeting, the GST Council clarified the tax treatment for popcorn after a request from Uttar Pradesh to specify the GST rate for popcorn seasoned with salt and spices.