Polypropylene (PP) is one of the most commonly used thermoplastics in industries ranging from packaging and textiles to automotive and consumer goods. Given its widespread applications and safety implications, the Government of India, through the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). has brought polypropylene under mandatory regulation through a Quality Control Order. This blog explains the essentials of the BIS QCO for polypropylene, the objectives, who it applies, and how to comply.
What is BIS QCO?
A Quality Control Order is legal notification issued by the Government of India that mandates compulsory BIS certification for specific products. The goal is to ensure safety, quality, and compliance with India Standards before such products are manufactured, sold, or distributed in the Indian markets.
Read More: What Is QCO In BIS?
Why Polypropylene Is Regulated?
Polypropylene is widely used in:
- Food-Grade containers and packaging
- Electrical insulation
- Automotive parts
- Home appliances
Because of its extensive consumer contact and potential environmental impact, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers introduced a QCO for Polypropylene to regulate its quality and prevent substandard products from entering the market.
Implementation Timeline
The QCO for Polypropylene was notified under the Petroleum and Petrochemical Regulatory Division. As per the official notification:
- It is application from a specific date (e.g., 12 months from the date of notification)
- A grace period is often provided for manufacturers to comply
Note: Always check the latest Gazette Notification for the exact dates and amendments:
Applicable Indian Standard
As per the QCO, all polypropylene products must conform to the Indian Standards:
IS 10910: 2020 – Polypropylene for safe use in contact with foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, and drinking water
These standards ensure that Polypropylene products meet mechanical, physical, and chemical safety criteria before being used in packaging or consumer products.
Who Needs BIS Certification?
The following stakeholders must obtain a BIS license before selling or distributing polypropylene in India:
| Stakeholder | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Indian Manufacturers | Must obtain BIS certification |
| Foreign Manufacturers | Must apply under FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme) |
| Importers | Must ensure that suppliers have valid BIS licenses |
Documents Required for BIS Certification of Polypropylene
| S. No. | Required Document |
|---|---|
| 1 | Factory Registration Proof |
| 2 | Manufacturing Process Flowchart |
| 3 | Test Reports from BIS Recognized Labs |
| 4 | Quality Control Manual |
| 5 | Raw Material Procurement Details |
| 6 | ISO 9001 Certificate (optional but recommended) |
| 7 | Layout of Manufacturing Unit |
| 8 | Product Sample and Packaging Details |
BIS Certification Process for Polypropylene
For Indian Manufacturers:
- Apply Online on the BIS portal
- Submit Required Documents
- Factory Audit by BIS Officer
- Product Testing in BIS Approved Labs
- Grant of BIS License with Standard Mark (ISI Mark)
For Foreign Manufacturers:
- Apply under FMCS
- Nominate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
- Pre-certification inspection by BIS
- Grant of BIS Certification
Penalty for Non-Complince
Under the BIS Act, 2016, any manufacturer or immporter who Fails to comply with the QCO is subjects to:
- Srizer of goods
- Monetary fines
- Imprisonment (in severe cases)
Therefore, it is legally mandatory to obtain BIS certification befor introducing polypropylene products to the Indian market.
Benefits of BIS Certification for Polypropylene
Below, we mentioned some benefits of BIS Certificate for Polypropylene:
- Legal approval to sell in Indian market
- Builds consumer trust and product credibility
- Ensures product safety and quality
- Avoid customer clearance delays and penalties
- Increases brand value and competitive advantage
Key Takeaways
- Polypropylene now falls under mandatory BIS QCO regulation.
- It must conforms to IS 10910: 2020 standards
- Both Indian and foreign manufacturers must get BIS certification
- Non-complince may lead to serious legal action
How ELT Corporate Can Help
At ELT Corporate, we specialize in BIS Certification services for electronic products, including power banks. We offer:
- End-to-end application support
- Testing coordination with BIS labs
- Documentation & portal filing
- Post-certification compliance advisory
Conclusion
The BIS QCO for Polypropylene marks a significant step by the India government to regulates the quality of plastic materials used in daily life and industry applications. With rising environmental and health concerns, ensuring that Polypropylene meets the prescribed Indian Standerds (IS 10910:2020) is not just a regulatory requirements but also a social responsibility. Weather you’re manufactured, importer , or distributor complying with the BIS QCO will enhance your credibility in the markets and prevent costly legal repercussions. Proative certification will open new market opportunities and foster trust among among end – user while also aligning your business with India’s vision for quality-driven growth.
What is the BIS QCO for Polypropylene?
It mandates that polypropylene used in food, pharma, or water applications must comply with IS 10910 and bear the ISI mark.
Which Indian Standard applies?
Polypropylene must conform to IS 10910:2020 for BIS certification.
Who needs BIS certification?
All domestic and foreign manufacturers selling or exporting polypropylene to India must get BIS certification.
