India says equalisation levy does not discriminate against any US company

India on Thursday said that two per cent equalisation levy (EL) does not discriminate against any US company as it applies equally to all non-resident e-commerce operators, irrespective of their country of residence.

The Commerce Ministry said in a release that office of US Trade Representative had on January 6 released its findings on the Section 301 investigation into India’s Digital Services Tax (DST) and concluded that the equalisation levy is discriminatory and restricts US commerce.

It said similar determinations were also made against Italy and Turkey on the same day.

“The Government of India will examine the determination/decision notified by the US in this regard, and would take appropriate action keeping in view the overall interest of the nation,” the release said.