Introduction – Why Classification Still Matters under GST 2.0
Even after several years of GST implementation, disputes relating to Composite Supply Vs Mixed Supply continue to arise. Under GST 2.0, incorrect classification of supply often results in tax demands, interest, and penalty, even where there is no intention to evade tax.
For businesses, MSMEs, Chartered Accountants, and legal practitioners, classification directly affects GST rate applicability, ITC eligibility, valuation, and litigation exposure.
Statutory Framework under the CGST Act
Meaning of Composite Supply – Section 2(30) of the CGST Act
A composite supply means a supply consisting of two or more taxable supplies which are naturally bundled and supplied together in the ordinary course of business, where one supply is the principal supply.
Meaning of Mixed Supply – Section 2(74) of the CGST Act
A mixed supply refers to two or more independent supplies made together for a single price, which are not naturally bundled.
Tax Liability on Composite and Mixed Supply – Section 8
- Composite supply is taxed at the rate applicable to the principal supply.
- Mixed supply is taxed at the highest GST rate applicable to any supply in the bundle.
Composite Supply Explained – Legal Meaning and Practical Application-Composite Supply vs Mixed Supply
Concept of Principal Supply
Principal supply is the dominant supply that gives the transaction its essential character. Ancillary supplies merely facilitate the principal supply.
Indicators Used to Identify Composite Supply
- Supplies are normally provided together
- One supply cannot be effectively provided without the other
- Customer expectations in ordinary business practice
- Artificial separation defeats commercial reality
Read more-
GST 2.0 Compliance Burden on MSMEs — A Legal and Practical Analysis
Practical Examples of Composite Supply
Supply of Goods with Freight and Insurance
Goods remain the principal supply; transportation and insurance are incidental.
Works Contract and EPC Contracts
Service is the principal supply despite the involvement of goods.
Hotel Accommodation with Complimentary Services
Accommodation remains dominant; ancillary services do not alter classification.
Mixed Supply Explained – When Bundling Creates Tax Risk
Artificial Bundling of Independent Supplies
Mixed supply arises when independent supplies are bundled together only for marketing convenience without a natural linkage.
Reason for Higher Tax Rate on Mixed Supply
The law discourages artificial bundling by taxing mixed supplies at the highest applicable GST rate.
Common Business Examples of Mixed Supply
Festive Gift Hampers
Multiple unrelated items are sold for a single price.
Promotional Combo Offers
Unconnected goods bundled together under sales schemes.
Composite Supply vs Mixed Supply – Key Legal Differences
Comparative Legal Table
| Parameter | Composite Supply | Mixed Supply |
| Nature of bundling | Natural | Artificial |
| Principal supply | Yes | No |
| GST rate | Rate of principal supply | Highest rate |
| Litigation risk | Lower | Higher |
Supreme Court of India – Governing Legal Principles
Substance Over Form – BSNL v. Union of India (2006)
The Supreme Court held that taxation depends on the real nature of the transaction, not its description or invoicing structure.
Composite Contracts – State of Madras v. Gannon Dunkerley (1958)
Indivisible contracts cannot be artificially split for taxation purposes.
Dominant Nature Test – Larsen & Toubro Ltd. v. State of Karnataka (2013)
The dominant intention of the contract determines tax treatment.
Note: No GST-specific Supreme Court ruling yet exists on Sections 2(30) and 2(74). These settled principles apply by analogy.
Advisory Guidance for Businesses and Professionals for Composite Supply vs Mixed Supply
Contract Drafting Strategy
- Clearly define the principal supply
- Avoid artificial structuring
- Maintain consistency across documents
Invoice Structuring Considerations
Invoice format alone does not decide classification. Commercial reality prevails.
Litigation Perspective – Defence in Classification Disputes
Common Departmental Allegations
- Supplies are not naturally bundled
- Incorrect identification of the principal supply
- Artificial tax planning
Effective Defence Strategy
- Establish the dominant nature of supply
- Rely on contracts, conduct, and Supreme Court principles
- Challenge reclassification without evidence
Common Mistakes Leading to GST Demands
- Over-reliance on invoice language
- Ignoring industry practice
- Using generic contract templates
- Casual promotional bundling
Practical Checklist for MSMEs and Professionals
- Is there a clear principal supply?
- Are supplies normally bundled in the industry?
- Does pricing revolve around one dominant element?
- Are documents consistent with actual conduct?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)-Composite Supply vs Mixed Supply
Does a single invoice always mean a composite supply?
No. Invoice format is not decisive.
Can separate pricing still result in a composite supply?
Yes, if supplies are naturally bundled.
Are promotional offers always mixed with supply?
Generally, yes, unless natural linkage exists.
Read also-
Input Tax Credit (ITC) in GST 2.0 — Rights, Restrictions & Taxpayer Protection
Conclusion
The distinction between Composite Supply vs Mixed Supply under GST 2.0 depends on commercial substance, not labels. Correct classification protects businesses from avoidable litigation and ensures compliance certainty.
Written by Adv. Sanjay Sharma, Practicing Advocate in India, with experience in Civil, Criminal, GST and IBC matters. This article is written for legal awareness purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
