Clarification on Intermediary Services: Circular No. 159/15/2021-GST
<p><span>he GST Council's Circular No. 159/15/2021-GST, dated 20th September 2021, provides essential clarifications regarding the scope of "Intermediary Services" under the GST law. This circular aims to clear up ambiguities and ensure uniform implementation of GST provisions across the country. Here are the key highlights:</span></p><p><span><strong>1. Definition of Intermediary</strong></span></p><ul><li><span>As per sub-section (13) of section 2 of the IGST Act, 2017, an intermediary is defined as a broker, agent, or any person who arranges or facilitates the supply of goods, services, or securities between two or more parties, but does not supply such goods or services on their own account.</span></li></ul><p><span><strong>2. Similarity with Service Tax Regime</strong></span></p><ul><li><span>The definition of "intermediary" under GST is largely borrowed from the Service Tax Regime, with the primary difference being the inclusion of the supply of securities under GST.</span></li></ul><p><span><strong>3. Basic Requirements for Intermediary Services</strong></span></p><ul><li><span><strong>Three Parties Involved</strong>: An intermediary involves three parties—the two main supply parties and the intermediary who facilitates the supply.</span></li><li><span><strong>Distinct Supplies</strong>: There are two distinct supplies: the main supply between two principals and the ancillary supply (intermediary service) which is separate from the main supply.</span></li><li><span><strong>Character of an Agent or Broker</strong>: The intermediary must act in a subsidiary role and not provide the main supply themselves.</span></li><li><span><strong>No Supply on Own Account</strong>: An intermediary does not supply goods or services on their own account; they merely arrange or facilitate the main supply.</span></li></ul><p><span><strong>4. Exclusions from Intermediary Services</strong></span></p><ul><li><span><strong>Sub-Contracting</strong>: Sub-contractors who supply the main service are not considered intermediaries.</span></li><li><span><strong>Provision of Main Supply</strong>: If a person supplies the main service on a principal-to-principal basis, they are not considered an intermediary.</span></li></ul><p><span><strong>5. Place of Supply for Intermediary Services</strong></span></p><ul><li><span>The specific provisions for the place of supply of intermediary services under section 13 of the IGST Act apply only when either the supplier or recipient of intermediary services is outside India.</span></li></ul><p><span><strong>6. Illustrations</strong></span></p><ul><li><span>The circular provides several examples to clarify the concept of intermediary services. These include scenarios involving manufacturers, software developers, insurance companies, and BPO firms.</span></li></ul><p><span><strong>Conclusion</strong> Circular No. 159/15/2021-GST provides comprehensive guidelines to distinguish intermediary services from other types of supplies. By adhering to these guidelines, businesses can ensure proper compliance with GST provisions and avoid misinterpretations.</span> <a href="https://cms.plasament.com/storage/circular-20no-20159-14-2021-gst.pdf">circular_20no._20159_14_2021_gst</a><br> </p>