New Delhi, Sept. 18 -- GST reforms, including the tax rate cuts effective 22 September, aim to benefit the poor and middle class, farmers and small businesses while boosting consumption and investments, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Thursday.

Addressing a gathering in Kolkata on next-generation GST reforms, Sitharaman said the reforms seek to simplify the tax structure, boost affordability, strengthen compliance, and stimulate industrial growth. The reforms also seek to benefit the diverse businesses, crafts and industries of West Bengal, the minister said.

The finance ministry on Wednesday notified the revamped GST rate restructure, other changes in forms and issued frequently asked questions to help businesses in impleme...