The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) recently held its Knowledge Series – II, focusing on significant regulatory changes affecting the hospitality sector. The event, held in Mumbai, brought together industry experts to discuss the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP) Rules, Goods and Services Tax (GST) updates, Labour Codes, and Maharashtra Tourism Policy 2024.
The first session, led by Abhijit Parab from Ernst & Young (EY), emphasised the importance of data privacy under the DPDP Rules 2025. Parab highlighted the necessity for hospitality businesses to enhance data security and consent mechanisms, stating, “Compliance is no longer a legal formality; it is fundamental to preserving guest trust and brand reputation.”
Akshit Saraogi, also from EY, led the second session on GST changes effective from 22 September 2025. He discussed the implications of the new tax structures on pricing and compliance, noting, “Hospitality businesses must now navigate between 5% and 18% tax regimes with consequent margin implications.”
The third session, conducted by Anshul Shukla and Siladitya Dasgupta from EY, covered the new Labour Codes effective from November 2025. Shukla explained the need for businesses to review wage structures and HR systems, stating, “The reforms signal higher compliance requirements and potential cost implications.”
Finally, Nikhil Padhye from EY discussed the Maharashtra Tourism Policy, highlighting opportunities for investment and growth. He described the policy as a “game-changer” for the state's hospitality ecosystem.
Ernst & Young served as the Official Knowledge Partner for the series, which aims to equip hospitality professionals with insights to navigate regulatory complexities
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