Tech giants Samsung and LG are currently under investigation by India Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). Authorities suspect both major companies underpaid import taxes on parts used to build premium OLED TVs.
The dispute focuses directly on imported open Cell Glass screen, which form the core component of high end TV panels. Samsung and LG paid a lower 5% import duty, arguing OLED is simply an advanced version of standard LED displays. However, government officials state that the discounted 5% tax applies strictly to older LCD or LED parts, while advanced OLED components require a 15% tax rate.
As reported by The Economic Times, tax investigators recently visited Samsung Gurugram office to question executives about their imports. Meanwhile, LG submitted written answers and made a voluntary cash deposit to cover potential extra duties. Readers following tech updates on NDTV Profit should note that these brands together control almost 59% of India’s OLED TV market. If Indian tax authorities confirm tariff evasion, both electronics giants could face heavy demand notices alongside steep penalties. Because display screens represent a massive portion of total TV production costs, this legal tax battle could ultimately drive up retail prices for luxury OLED TVs across India.
