Surat :  Sachin GIDC Industries Seek Relief from 23% Tax Hike

SURAT: At a time when industries are battling rising input costs and weakening demand, a proposed tax burden increase of 20% to 23% has triggered resentment among industrialists in Surat’s Sachin GIDC estate, prompting an urgent appeal to the Gujarat government for relief.

The Sachin Industrial Co-operative Society Limited has written to the Chief Minister and Industries Minister, demanding immediate intervention over consolidated tax bills for 2026-27.

According to the association, the hike follows a fresh assessment for the 2026–2030 block period, with construction valuation rates revised upwards and Jantri rates increased from ₹5,870 to ₹8,940 per square metre.

Society chairman Mayur Godwala said industries were already facing mounting pressure from global uncertainty, rising raw material prices and declining demand. He warned that falling domestic sales and stalled exports could further strain businesses.

“If industries do not receive the necessary support from the government, the impact could extend to production, workers’ livelihoods and the entire supply chain,” Golwala said.

Godwala and society secretary Kishor Patel argued that Sachin GIDC is a fully developed industrial estate with sufficient funds to maintain roads, drainage, streetlights, water supply and sanitation without imposing an additional burden.

The association has sought relief similar to the measures extended during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has also proposed empowering the local notified authority to grant a one-year tax reprieve if a state-level decision takes time.

Industrialists say timely intervention is crucial to protect manufacturing activity and employment.