CST vs. VAT: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 28, 2024
CST (Central Sales Tax) is a tax on sales of goods between different states in India, while VAT (Value Added Tax) is a multi-stage tax levied at each stage of production and distribution.
Key Differences
CST (Central Sales Tax) is a levy imposed on the sale of goods during inter-state trade in India, focusing on the movement of goods between states. VAT (Value Added Tax), on the other hand, is a comprehensive tax applied to the value added at each stage of production and distribution of goods and services, widely adopted globally.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 28, 2024
Under CST, the tax is collected at the point of sale, specifically for inter-state transactions. This nature of CST makes it a single-point tax. Conversely, VAT is characterized by its multi-point nature, where tax is collected at various stages of production and distribution, with the provision of input tax credit.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 28, 2024
The rate of CST is generally uniform for specific types of goods and is determined by the central government. In contrast, VAT rates can vary depending on the nature of the product and are determined by individual countries or, in some cases, regions within countries.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 28, 2024
CST is primarily concerned with the sale and movement of goods across state boundaries, thereby impacting inter-state commerce. VAT, being more comprehensive, impacts almost every aspect of business operations, including local, national, and international sales.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 28, 2024
Implementation of CST is guided by Central legislation in India, focusing on inter-state trade. VAT implementation, however, is guided by both national and international regulations and practices, making it a more globally uniform tax system.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 28, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Nature of Tax
Levied on inter-state sales of goods
Levied at each stage of production and distribution
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Jan 28, 2024
Point of Taxation
Single-point (at the time of sale)
Multi-point (at various stages)
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Jan 28, 2024
Rate Determination
Determined by central government
Varies by product and region
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Jan 28, 2024
Scope
Limited to inter-state transactions in India
Applies to all stages of goods and services globally
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Jan 28, 2024
Implementation
Governed by Central legislation in India
Governed by national and international laws
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Jan 28, 2024
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CST and VAT Definitions
CST
A form of bodywork focusing on the cranial bones and spine.
She found relief from migraines after her CST sessions.
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Jan 09, 2024
VAT
A tax on the added value of goods and services at each stage of production or distribution.
The price includes VAT at 20%.
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Jan 09, 2024
CST
A tax on the sale of goods during inter-state trade in India.
The CST was applicable when the furniture was shipped from Delhi to Mumbai.
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Jan 09, 2024
VAT
A type of wind turbine with a vertical rotation axis.
The farm installed several VATs to generate renewable energy.
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Jan 09, 2024
CST
A time zone used in parts of North and Central America.
The webinar will start at 10 AM CST.
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VAT
A professional skilled in analyzing machinery vibrations.
The VAT detected early signs of wear in the factory equipment.
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CST
A group dedicated to assisting customers of a company.
The CST resolved my issue promptly.
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Jan 09, 2024
VAT
A tool used in various fields for measuring volume.
The architect used a VAT to calculate the building's volume.
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Jan 09, 2024
CST
A certified professional in the surgical technology field.
The CST assisted in the complex surgery.
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Jan 09, 2024
VAT
A rehabilitation approach for visual and attentional disorders.
VAT techniques improved his reading comprehension post-stroke.
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Jan 09, 2024
VAT
A large vessel, such as a tub, cistern, or barrel, used to hold or store liquids.
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VAT
A large tub, such as is used for making wine or for tanning.
A vat of liquid
A vat of acid
A vat of wine
A vat of olives
A vat of fat
A vat of glue
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Jan 05, 2024
VAT
A square, hollow place on the back of a calcining furnace, where tin ore is laid to dry.
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Jan 05, 2024
VAT
(dated) A liquid measure and dry measure; especially, a liquid measure in Belgium and Holland, corresponding to the hectolitre of the metric system, which contains 22.01 imperial gallons, or 26.4 standard gallons in the United States.
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Jan 05, 2024
VAT
(transitive) To blend (wines or spirits) in a vat; figuratively, to mix or blend elements as if with wines or spirits.
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VAT
A large vessel, cistern, or tub, especially one used for holding liquors in an immature state, chemical preparations for dyeing, or for tanning, or for tanning leather, or the like.
Let him produce his vats and tubs, in opposition to heaps of arms and standards.
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Jan 05, 2024
VAT
A measure for liquids, and also a dry measure; especially, a liquid measure in Belgium and Holland, corresponding to the hectoliter of the metric system, which contains 22.01 imperial gallons, or 26.4 standard gallons in the United States.
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Jan 05, 2024
VAT
A tax levied on the difference between a commodity's price before taxes and its cost of production
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
How is VAT calculated?
VAT is calculated as a percentage of the value added at each stage of production or distribution.
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Jan 28, 2024
Does VAT replace sales tax?
In many regions, VAT is an alternative to traditional sales tax systems.
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Jan 28, 2024
Can CST rates vary?
CST rates are generally uniform for specific goods, set by the central government.
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Jan 28, 2024
How does VAT affect business accounting?
Businesses must account for VAT on sales and purchases separately.
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Jan 28, 2024
What is CST?
CST is a tax on the sale of goods between different states in India.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 28, 2024
Who pays CST?
CST is paid by the seller but often passed on to the consumer.
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Jan 28, 2024
Is VAT applicable worldwide?
VAT is used in many countries globally, but its implementation varies.
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Jan 28, 2024
Can CST be claimed back?
CST paid during inter-state purchases is not typically refundable.
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Jan 28, 2024
How does VAT impact prices?
VAT can increase the end price of goods and services for consumers.
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Jan 28, 2024
Is CST applicable to services?
CST is specifically levied on the sale of goods, not services.
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Jan 28, 2024
Does VAT apply to online sales?
VAT often applies to online sales, depending on the region.
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Jan 28, 2024
Are there different VAT rates for different products?
Yes, VAT rates can vary based on the type of product.
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Jan 28, 2024
How is CST different from GST in India?
CST is for inter-state sales, while GST combines multiple taxes, including VAT.
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Jan 28, 2024
Is CST applicable on imported goods?
CST does not apply to imports; customs duty may apply instead.
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Jan 28, 2024
Does VAT apply to both goods and services?
Yes, VAT typically applies to both goods and services.
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Jan 28, 2024
What is the purpose of CST?
CST aims to regulate trade between different states in India.
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Jan 28, 2024
Are all businesses required to charge VAT?
This depends on the business size and local VAT laws.
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Jan 28, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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