Domestic gross GST collections in March 2026 increased by 8.8% year-on-year to Rs 2 lakh crore, as per official data. This growth was supported by steady domestic revenues and a significant rise in import-related collections. Import revenues saw a robust 17.8% increase, while domestic revenues showed a more moderate growth of 5.9% during the month.
On a net basis, after adjusting for refunds, GST collections in March rose by 8.2% year-on-year to Rs 1,77,990 crore. For the full financial year 2025-26, gross GST collections grew by 8.3% to Rs 22.27 lakh crore, indicating strong economic activity despite global uncertainties. Net GST revenue for the fiscal stood at Rs 19.34 lakh crore, marking a 7.1% increase over the previous fiscal year.
Refunds in March increased by 13.8% to Rs 22,074 crore, with domestic refunds showing a notable 31.2% jump, suggesting enhanced compliance and quicker processing. However, cess collections experienced a sharp decline, turning negative at Rs (-177) crore due to higher refunds and adjustments.
Experts note that GST collections in FY26 demonstrate robust tax buoyancy in line with India’s estimated GDP growth of around 7%, highlighting the connection between rising consumption, expanding imports, and improved compliance. Domestic GST revenues grew by 6.4% during the year, while import-related collections surged by 14.1%, indicating resilient demand and strengthening trade flows amidst global uncertainties.
In the previous month, GST collections also showed a similar growth trend, with a 9.1% year-on-year increase to Rs 1.84 lakh crore in February. This marked the 12th consecutive month where GST revenues surpassed Rs 1.7 lakh crore. The growth in February was primarily driven by a 10.2% rise in domestic GST revenues and a 5.4% growth in revenues from imports.
