Published Dec 29, 2025 4 Min Read

Introduction

Commodity Transaction Tax (CTT) is a tax levied on the sale of non-agricultural commodity futures in India. Introduced to regulate speculative trading and generate revenue, CTT is applicable to transactions executed on recognised commodity exchanges. This tax is paid by the seller and is calculated as a percentage of the transaction value. Understanding CTT is crucial for traders and investors engaging in commodity markets. For those interested in commodity trading, knowing its implications can help make informed decisions. Explore more about Commodity Trading here.

What is Commodity Transaction Tax

Commodity Transaction Tax (CTT) is a direct tax imposed on transactions involving non-agricultural commodity derivatives traded on recognised exchanges. It was introduced to curb excessive speculation and ensure transparency in commodity markets. CTT applies to the sale of commodity futures contracts, with the tax rate determined by the government. This tax is similar to the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) but is specific to commodities. Understanding CTT is essential for traders to evaluate the cost implications of their trades. Learn more about Securities Transaction Tax here.

What is Commodity Transaction Tax Rate in India?

In India, the Commodity Transaction Tax rate is fixed at 0.01% of the transaction value. This rate applies to the sale of non-agricultural commodity futures contracts. For example, if the transaction value is Rs. 10 lakh, the applicable CTT would be Rs. 100. The tax is collected by the exchanges and remitted to the government. It is important for traders to factor in this cost while calculating their overall trading expenses. Understand Commodity Market Timings here to plan your trades effectively.

How is Commodity Transaction Tax Calculated?

CTT is calculated as a percentage of the transaction value of non-agricultural commodity futures contracts. For example, if a trader sells a futures contract worth Rs. 5 lakh, the applicable CTT at 0.01% would be Rs. 50. This tax is paid by the seller and is collected by the commodity exchanges. It is essential for traders to include CTT in their cost calculations to understand the net profitability of their trades.

Types of Commodity Transaction Taxes

Commodity Transaction Tax is primarily applicable to non-agricultural commodity derivatives traded on recognised exchanges. It does not apply to agricultural commodities to encourage trading in this sector. The tax is levied on the transaction value, and the rate is uniform across all non-agricultural commodity futures contracts. Traders should understand the types of commodities subject to CTT to manage their trading costs effectively. Learn more about Commodity Trading here.

Objectives of Commodity Transaction Tax

The primary objectives of Commodity Transaction Tax include:

  1. Revenue Generation: CTT contributes to government revenue by taxing speculative trading.
  2. Regulation: It discourages excessive speculation and promotes stability in commodity markets.
  3. Transparency: By taxing transactions, CTT ensures better accountability in commodity trading.
    Understanding these objectives helps traders and investors align their strategies with market regulations. Explore Commodity Market Timings here.

Impact of CTT on Traders and Investors

CTT impacts traders and investors by increasing their transaction costs, which may affect profitability. While it discourages speculative trading, it also ensures a more stable commodity market. For long-term investors, CTT has minimal impact compared to short-term traders who frequently transact. Understanding this tax is crucial for effective cost management and strategic planning. Open a Demat Account here to start trading with clarity.

Conclusion

Commodity Transaction Tax plays a significant role in regulating the commodity markets in India. By imposing a tax on non-agricultural commodity futures, it ensures transparency, discourages speculative trading, and contributes to government revenue. Traders must factor in CTT while calculating their trading costs to make informed decisions. For those looking to explore commodity trading, understanding market timings and opening a Demat account are essential steps. Learn more about Commodity Trading here.

Frequently asked questions

Who pays commodity transaction tax?

Commodity Transaction Tax is paid by the seller in transactions involving non-agricultural commodity futures contracts. The tax is collected by recognised commodity exchanges and remitted to the government. Buyers are not directly liable for CTT, but it indirectly affects transaction costs. Traders must account for CTT while calculating the net profitability of their trades.

Are losses incurred from commodity trading also liable to taxation?

Losses from commodity trading are not directly taxed. However, Commodity Transaction Tax is levied on the transaction value irrespective of profit or loss. Traders must pay CTT for every sale of non-agricultural commodity futures contracts. Losses can be offset against profits as per income tax regulations, but CTT remains a separate obligation.

How is CTT assessed for trading in commodities?

CTT is assessed at a fixed rate of 0.01% on the transaction value of non-agricultural commodity futures contracts. For example, if the transaction value is Rs. 1 crore, the applicable CTT would be Rs. 1,000. This tax is paid by the seller and is collected by commodity exchanges as part of the trading process.

When was commodity transaction tax introduced in India?

Commodity Transaction Tax was introduced in India on 1 July 2013. It was implemented to regulate speculative trading in commodity markets and generate revenue for the government. By taxing non-agricultural commodity futures, CTT aims to promote transparency and stability in the commodity trading ecosystem.

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