The Indian Soft Drinks Manufacturers Association is claiming a 50% increase in excise has seriously affected the industry and soft drink manufacturers are now asking the government to reduce Special Excise Tax (SET). Basic excise duty on chewing tobacco, pan masala, cosmetics and aerated waters (soft drinks) is 16%. The Special Excise Tax (SET) on aerated waters is 40%. To bring it in line with other food products the industry is proposing a removal of 24% in SET.
