Why two different rulings on GST on liquor could be problematic

In a move which could raise the scope of litigation for alcohol manufacturers, Maharashtra and Karnataka advance ruling authorities have delivered contradictory ruling on the levy of goods and services tax (GST) on payments made by breweries to the brand owners. While the Karnataka Appellate Authority for Advance Ruling (AAAR) has said such a payment would attract the GST at 18%, the Maharashtra A…