New Delhi, Jul 15 (IANS): Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjrapu Rammohan Naidu has announced the implementation of a uniform IGST rate of 5 per cent on all aircraft and aircraft engine parts, effective from Monday.

The decision marks a significant milestone for making India’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) industry a global aviation hub as it will lead to a reduction in operational costs, resolve tax credit issues and attract investment, according to a Civil Aviation Ministry statement.

Naidu said: "The introduction of a uniform 5 per cent IGST rate on MRO items is a major boost for the aviation sector. Previously, the varying GST rates of 5 per cent,12 per cent, 18 per cent, and 28 per cent on aircraft components created challenges, including an inverted duty structure and GST accumulation in MRO accounts. This new policy eliminates these disparities, simplifies the tax structure, and fosters growth in the MRO sector."

"Under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi, we are committed to the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative. His support for transforming India into a leading aviation hub has been crucial in driving this policy forward," the minister added.

Highlighting the future prospects, the minister said that the Indian MRO industry is projected to become a $4 billion industry by 2030. This policy change is a crucial step towards building a strong ecosystem for MRO services, driving innovation, and ensuring sustainable growth.

The Ministry is confident that this move will significantly enhance the competitiveness of the Indian MRO sector, fostering innovation and efficiency, and creating a robust and efficient aviation sector, according to the official statement.