GST mop-up rises record 23% in Octoer, hits Rs 2.3 lakh crore

In October 2026, GST collections surged by 22.9%, marking the quickest expansion since the tax regime overhaul in September 2025. The total collections amounted to Rs 2.3 lakh crore, the second-highest monthly haul since the rationalization. While demand remains robust, the figures suggest a concentration of quarter-end activity and base effects, as September's sales had been declining due to the anticipated implementation of lower tax rates.

Domestic GST collection growth stood at 15.8%, just below Rs 1.6 lakh crore, whereas integrated GST on imports surged 42% to Rs 72,246 crore, possibly due to surging commodity prices. Net collections soared 25.6% to over Rs 2 lakh crore, with refunds increasing by 6.5% to Rs 27,934 crore. MS Mani, a Deloitte consultant, noted that the data indicates festival season consumption growth, heightened GST compliance, and a growing role of import driven consumption.

Among states, Meghalaya and Himachal Pradesh saw the highest growth, while Jharkhand, Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh recorded declines. Large states like Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat also experienced a rise in SGST collections. The positive trend, however, hinges on whether the momentum persists beyond the festive period.