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.

The report said the announcement regarding popcorn in the GST Council meeting was made to clarify the classification and tax slab applicable on popcorn mixed with 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.

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.

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.

Popcorn, the ultimate movie-time snack, is now in the spotlight for a surprising reason—taxes. Government sources have confirmed that loose popcorn sold in cinemas will continue to attract a 5 per cent GST just like restaurant services,

Netizens rose up in arms last week when the Council reiterated the existing 5%, 12% and 18% tax slab on the pop corn, depending on the nature of the product.

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.

The government has issued a set of answers to the most common questions surrounding GST on popcorn, including classification, varying rates, and whether popcorn prices will increase in theaters.