E-commerce cos may get to upload GST e-invoice for vendors

In a significant relaxation for the e-commerce sector, the government could allow online platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart to upload e-invoice for vendors under the goods and services tax (GST) framework.

As part of ongoing trials of e-invoicing, a detailed set of clarifications in the form of frequently asked questions have been issued.

E-commerce operator can request for e-invoice on behalf of the supplier.

The matter has been taken up by the government and could be allowed once the trial period is over, a government official told ET.

Trials are now on…It will require an amendment… The issue has been taken up.

Allowing e-commerce platforms to undertake e-invoice compliance on behalf of suppliers would go a long way in facilitating compliance for such suppliers

Given the criticality, it’s important for businesses to keep track of them. Further, businesses should participate in the testing phase as part of their preparation to go live on April 1.

Voluntary uploading of e-invoices on the GSTN portal kicked off from January 1, for businesses having turnover over Rs 500 crore. For businesses having an annual turnover of over Rs 100 crore will be effective from February 1

Only 10,000 line items per invoice would be allowed, as per the FAQ. Foreign services providers will have to set up local entities to integrate with the invoice registration portal (IRP), as per the FAQs.

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Experts say these clarifications will help businesses gear up for the new system.”With specifications for e-invoice API being released to various companies, the government’s intent to soon implement it is reinforced,” said Abhishek Jain, tax partner, EY.

“FAQs released provide clarification on ambiguities such as no requirement of invoice registration portal validation for delivery challans and bill of supply, 10,000 line items being allowed per e-invoice, amendments in the GST law on invoicing to align with e-invoices, etc and its timely release should help businesses gear up better for this new system.”

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