Excise Echoes: DCM Shriram Faces Rs 400 Crore Retrospective Tax Shock

Image Source: Indian Chemical News

DCM Shriram Ltd has also been confronted with a retrospective excise duty demand for seven financial years from FY 2018–19 to FY 2024–25. The total impact has been estimated at Rs 400 crore, and the firm is now pondering its legal and financial response.

Key Highlights

Historical transaction charges have been imposed by the Excise Department, possibly because of differences in valuation or classification

The demand spans various business segments such as chemicals, plastics, and sugar where excise applicability was changed after GST

DCM Shriram has guaranteed no near-term cash outflow, so far as the issue is in question and can be challenged

Financial Context

The firm registered gross revenue of Rs 12,370 crore in FY25 out of which Rs 664 crore are booked as levies already

Net profit was Rs 1,020 crore, leaving space to absorb the probable liabilities

Management is discussing among themselves if provisions should be made in Q2FY26 accounts

Strategic Implications

The retrospective nature of demand results in regulatory risk and tax risk

DCM Shriram can turn to litigation or re-evaluation under provisions available

The outcome could set a precedent for other firms with similar legacy tax issues

Market Sentiment

Shares dipped 3.2% post-announcement, reflecting investor caution

Analysts foresee minimal long-term effect if the firm can hold its ground

Sources: Economic Times, Business Standard, Moneycontrol, DCM Shriram Investor Filings, Press Information Bureau India