The GST Council may consider measures to improve tax credit and refund access for exporters at its meeting on October 7. The proposed changes could help businesses unlock working capital, reduce tax-related costs and manage rising expenses amid global trade uncertainty.

One key proposal relates to supplies made by Indian companies through their own overseas branches. Under the current GST framework, transactions between establishments of the same legal entity can face difficulties in qualifying as exports.

The proposed change could make these transactions easier to treat as exports. It would place greater focus on the location of the overseas customer rather than how the Indian company structures its foreign operations.

The GST Council may also examine measures to speed up tax refunds and improve access to working capital. Faster refunds could help exporters manage higher logistics, financing and operating costs.

The proposed reforms come as global trade faces disruptions from geopolitical tensions, changing supply chains and higher business costs. Easier tax credit and refund procedures could support the competitiveness of Indian exporters in international markets.