The GST Council, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has proposed revised GST rates for popcorn, sparking widespread debate. Non-branded popcorn with salt and spices will attract a 5% GST, pre-packaged and branded varieties will have a 12% GST, while caramelized popcorn, classified under sugar confectionery, will be taxed at 18%.
This move has triggered a backlash on social media, with critics, including two former government economic advisers, questioning the fairness of the taxation framework introduced in 2017. The decision to impose varying tax rates based on the sugar content of popcorn has also drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, economists, and even supporters of the government.
Defending the 18% GST on caramelized popcorn, Sitharaman explained that items with added sugar are subject to higher tax rates. However, this explanation has done little to quell the uproar. Many netizens have taken to social media to share satirical memes, expressing their frustration over the already steep prices of popcorn in theaters, which are now expected to rise further due to the new tax.
