Accounting for Borrowing Cost in AS-16

The standard prescribes the accounting treatment for borrowing costs (i.e. interest and other costs) incurred by an enterprise in connection with the borrowing of funds. Borrowing costs are required to be capitalized as part of a qualifying asset (an asset that takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use), if it is directly attributable towards its acquisition, construction or production. Upon such capitalization, the carrying amount of assets should be assessed as to whether it is greater than its recoverable amount or net realizable value and adjustments are required to be made in accordance with other standards. The amount of borrowing costs eligible for capitalization should be determined in accordance with AS 16 and other borrowing costs (not eligible for capitalization) should be recognized as expenses in the period in which they are incurred. This Statement does not deal with the actual or imputed cost of owners’ equity, including preference share capital not classified as a liability.