In a significant relaxation for the ecommerce 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. “Ecommerce operator can request for e-invoice on behalf of supplier,” the clarification said. 

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.” The GST Network has issued a detailed set of FAQs.

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 annual turnover over Rs 100 crore will be effective from February 1. Only 10,000 line items per einvoice 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.

Also, for B2C invoicing issued by businesses with annual turnover over Rs 500 crore, an electronically scannable quick response (QR) code will be mandatory from April 1. The e-invoice will help streamline the indirect tax system and ensure better compliance by keeping a check on tax evasion.#casansaar (Source - Economic Times)