Le Travenues Technology GST appeal rejected, Rs.89.8 lakh demand upheld
Le Travenues Technology Limited disclosed on August 07, 2026, that its appeal against a Goods and Services Tax (GST) demand was rejected by the Additional Commissioner, CGST (Appeals), Gurugram. The appellate authority upheld an original demand of Rs.89,80,778 in tax, along with applicable interest and a penalty of Rs.89,80,778, confirming the total financial exposure remains unchanged from the initial assessment. This outcome escalates the regulatory risk for the travel technology firm, which must now contest the matter at a higher judicial forum.
The rejection stems from Order-in-Appeal No. 355-360/CGST/APPEALS/GGM/LKG/2026-27, dated June 24, 2026, passed under Section 107(11) of the CGST Act, 2017, read with Section 20 of the IGST Act, 2017. The order dismissed six appeals filed by the company against an earlier Order-in-Original dated January 31, 2025, issued by the Assistant Commissioner, Division - East – 2, Central Tax, CGST Gurugram. The core dispute centers on the classification of services rendered by Le Travenues to overseas entities, including Booking.com B.V., Netherlands.
Key Details of the Dispute
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Tax Demand | Rs.89,80,778 |
| Penalty | Rs.89,80,778 |
| Applicable Period | July 01, 2017 to March 31, 2023 |
| Appeal Authority | Additional Commissioner, CGST (Appeals), Gurugram |
| Order Date | June 24, 2026 |
The tax authorities classified the services provided to foreign clients as 'intermediary services' under Section 2(13) read with Section 13(8)(b) of the IGST Act, 2017. Consequently, these transactions were deemed ineligible for treatment as 'export of services' under Section 2(6) of the IGST Act, 2017. This classification triggers GST liability, whereas export of services would typically be zero-rated or exempt under specific conditions.
Company Response and Next Steps
In its disclosure under Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, Le Travenues stated that it maintains a strong case on merits. Group General Counsel and Company Secretary Suresh Kumar Bhutani declared that the information provided is true and correct to the best of the company’s knowledge. The company confirmed there are no material financial implications expected beyond the legal and other expenses required to contest the matter.
Le Travenues intends to file a further appeal before the Hon'ble Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal within the prescribed time limit. The company had previously notified the stock exchanges about the initial order on February 05, 2025. The current disclosure ensures compliance with SEBI Master Circular No. HO/49/14/14(7)2025-CFD-POD2/I/3762/2026, updated till January 30, 2026, regarding material events affecting listed entities.
