GST for event managers and caterers

Events and catering are services, and the rates are worth getting right because they bundle many costs.

Key points

• Event management is generally taxed at 18%
• Outdoor catering is commonly 18%; some restaurant-linked catering is 5% without ITC
• Your client often cannot claim input credit on food and catering (blocked credits), so price accordingly

Bill the package clearly and apply the correct rate per component. Confirm edge cases with a CA.