GST implementation may lead to a levy of a sin tax of 40% on cigarettes in addition to the prevailing excise duty structure. The sin tax will replace the state VAT which is currently at 26.5% on a blended basis as per our estimates. This hike is significant and it will have a significant impact on the cigarettes business volume and profit growth. While the impact is significant, we find ITC is preparing ground for GST implementation by taking calibrated price hikes and steadily increasing the share of sub-65mm cigarettes. Post the implementation of GST, the profit growth trajectory for ITC will improve significantly as GST will remove various distribution inefficiencies. We maintain our Buy recommendation on ITC with a target price of Rs 300 after baking in the negative impact of GST implementation starting from FY18.