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Fresh VAT schemes have been drawn up on cosmetics and toiletries items, which is expected to push the prices of such items higher.

Additional VAT has been imposed on men’s shaving items such as shaving creams, after shave, and bath-salts, washroom fresheners and other similar products. Now, the VAT rate on these products has been raised to 15 per cent from what was 10 per cent.

Also, there has been an imposition of flat 10 per cent VAT rate on cosmetic products.

Aggressive VAT rates have been slapped on ceramic bathtub, jacuzzi, shower and shower tray. The VAT proposed has been increased to 30 percent from the existing 20 percent.