Can I Sell on Amazon/Flipkart Without GST? Complete Seller Guide (2026)
Posted on February 19, 2026 by Nitin Rawat
If you are planning to start selling online, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: Can I sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST?
It’s a valid concern. Many small sellers, resellers, and beginners want to test the market before completing legal formalities. But when it comes to e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, GST rules are very different from traditional offline businesses.
In this detailed guide, we’ll clearly explain whether you can sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST, what the law says, what exceptions exist, and what risks you may face if you ignore compliance.
Let’s break it down in simple language.
Understanding the Basic Rule: Is GST Mandatory for Amazon & Flipkart Sellers?
To answer the main question — Can I sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST? — you need to understand how GST applies to e-commerce sellers.
Under Indian GST law, businesses selling through e-commerce operators like Amazon or Flipkart are generally required to register under GST, regardless of turnover.
Unlike offline businesses (where GST becomes mandatory only after crossing ₹20–40 lakh turnover depending on state and category), e-commerce sellers usually must obtain GST registration from the beginning.
So in most cases, the short answer is:
👉 No, you cannot sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST registration.
But there are a few exceptions.
When Can You Sell on Amazon/Flipkart Without GST?
Although GST is generally mandatory, there are limited scenarios where you may sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST:
1. Selling Only GST-Exempt Products
Some goods are exempt from GST. If you are selling only GST-exempt products, you may not require GST registration.
Examples may include:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Unbranded food grains
- Handmade products under certain conditions
However, most commonly sold products (electronics, clothing, beauty products, packaged foods, accessories, etc.) are taxable.
So if you are asking, Can I sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST for regular products? — the answer is generally no.
2. Selling Through the Composition Scheme? Not Allowed
Some people think they can use the GST Composition Scheme and avoid full GST compliance.
But here’s the important part:
Sellers supplying goods through e-commerce operators that collect TCS (Tax Collected at Source) are not eligible for the Composition Scheme.
That means if you are planning to sell on Amazon or Flipkart, you must register under regular GST — not composition.
Why Is GST Mandatory for E-commerce Sellers?
If you’re still wondering, Can I sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST and avoid registration initially? — you should understand why GST is required.
Here’s why:
- E-commerce platforms collect TCS under GST law.
- Sellers must file GST returns to claim credit of TCS.
- Online transactions are digitally recorded and easily traceable.
- Platforms require GSTIN during seller registration.
Amazon and Flipkart seller panels typically require a valid GST number before listing most products.
So practically and legally, selling without GST becomes extremely difficult.
What Happens If You Try to Sell Without GST?
Trying to sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST when it is required can lead to serious issues:
1. Seller Account Suspension
Platforms may suspend or deactivate your account if GST compliance is not maintained.
2. Penalties Under GST Law
Operating without mandatory GST registration can attract penalties under Section 122 of the CGST Act.
3. No Input Tax Credit
Without GST registration, you cannot claim input tax credit on purchases.
4. Legal Notices
If detected, authorities may issue notices and demand tax along with interest and penalty.
So instead of repeatedly asking, Can I sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST and avoid compliance? — it’s better to understand the long-term risks.
Do Small Sellers Need GST for Amazon?
Many beginners believe small sellers don’t need GST.
But GST rules for e-commerce are different from offline businesses.
Even if your turnover is ₹1 lakh or ₹5 lakh, if you sell taxable goods through Amazon or Flipkart, GST registration is generally mandatory.
This is clearly mentioned in GST provisions related to e-commerce operators.
So again, to clarify:
Can I sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST if my sales are low?
👉 In most taxable product cases — No.
What About Selling Handmade or Homemade Products?
If you are selling handmade or homemade products, GST requirement depends on:
- Whether the product is taxable
- Whether the platform demands GST
- Whether your supply falls under exemption category
Some categories may allow selling without GST if the product itself is exempt. However, marketplace policies frequently require GST for listing.
So before assuming you can sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST, verify product classification carefully.
Step-by-Step: How to Start Selling Legally
Instead of worrying, here’s the smarter approach:
Step 1: Identify Your Product Category
Check whether your product is taxable or exempt.
Step 2: Apply for GST Registration
If required, obtain GST registration before listing products.
Step 3: Register as Seller on Amazon/Flipkart
Use your GSTIN during seller onboarding.
Step 4: Maintain Proper Compliance
File monthly or quarterly returns as applicable.
This approach protects your business from future legal trouble.
Why Proper Registration Builds Trust
Many sellers look for shortcuts and search repeatedly:
Can I sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST?
But professional sellers understand something important:
Legal compliance builds:
- Buyer trust
- Platform credibility
- Long-term brand growth
- Smooth business scaling
Operating legally also allows you to expand to:
- B2B sales
- Wholesale distribution
- International marketplaces
Expert Insight: Should You Delay GST?
From a compliance perspective, delaying GST registration while selling taxable goods online is risky.
As a consultant’s view:
If you are serious about building an online business, it’s better to register properly from the beginning rather than face penalties later.
GST registration is not just a legal formality — it is part of structured business growth.
Final Answer: Can I Sell on Amazon/Flipkart Without GST?
Let’s summarize clearly.
✔ If you sell taxable goods — GST is mandatory.
✔ If you sell through e-commerce platforms — GST is generally required.
✔ If you sell exempt goods only — GST may not be required (verify carefully).
✔ If you ignore GST when mandatory — penalties and suspension risk apply.
So, in most real-world cases:
👉 No, you cannot sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST registration.
The safer and smarter route is to consult a professional, understand your exact requirement, and register accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I sell on Amazon without GST if my turnover is below ₹20 lakh?
For e-commerce sellers of taxable goods, GST is usually mandatory regardless of turnover.
2. Can I sell handmade items without GST?
Only if the items are GST-exempt and platform policy allows it.
3. Is GST required for Flipkart sellers?
Yes, in most taxable product cases.
Conclusion
If you’re asking, Can I sell on Amazon/Flipkart without GST? — you’re already thinking about compliance.
And that’s a good sign.
Instead of risking penalties, take the structured approach:
Understand your category.
Register properly.
Build legally.
Grow confidently.
Online selling is a powerful opportunity — but only when your legal foundation is strong.
If you’re unsure about your exact requirement, always seek proper consultation before starting.
Your business deserves protection from Day 1