IN CASE OF EXPORT SALES , TERMINAL HANDLING CHARGES CHARGES WITH SERVICE TAX CHARGED BY THE MAIN SHIPPING LINER PAID BY THE AGENT AND AGENT WILL CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT OF THE EXPENSES FROM THE EXPORTER.
WHETHER THE EXPORTER CAN CLAIM THE SERVICE TAX REFUND ON THE INVOICES SUBMITTED BY THE AGENT ?
Service tax refund on terminal handling charges hinges on Cenvat credit treatment and invoicing structure. Whether service tax on terminal handling charges reimbursed to an agent by an exporter is refundable depends on treatment: if the exporter does not take Cenvat credit, they may claim a service tax refund on agent invoices; alternatively the agent may take Cenvat credit and bill THC plus commission with service tax, enabling refund claims; or the tax may be treated as a non refundable cost to the exporter. (AI Summary)