The Government of India has officially withdrawn 14 BIS QCO, which earlier mandated mandatory BIS certification for a range of chemical and polymer-based materials. This decision brings significant relief to manufacturers, importers and Downriver industries who depend on these materials for industrial processing.
Withdrawal notice was published by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, stating that these specific QCOs have been kept in abeyance till further orders and withdrawn. This policy change indicates the government’s intention to reduce compliance burden, encourage smooth trade flows and support various manufacturing sectors dependent on these raw materials.
Why Did the Government Withdraw These 14 QCOs?
There are several strategic reasons behind this withdrawal:
1. To reduce disruptions in the supply of raw materials
Several industries Lifted concerns about the limited number of BIS-certified foreign manufacturers, leading to shortages and production delays.
2. Supporting Make in India and ease of doing business
Mandatory BIS certification requires audits, samples, testing and compliance costs. Temporary relaxation of these norms helps MSMEs and medium-scale industries reduce their operational burden.
3. Encourage industrial development
Major sectors like plastics, packaging, chemicals, rubber and automotive depend on these materials. Clearance helps maintain Continuous supply and manufacturing continuity.
4.Revisiting standards and consulting stakeholders
The government aims to Reassess the standards, testing procedures and certification framework in consultation with industry bodies.
List of 14 Withdrawn BIS Quality Control Orders
While the official notification mentions the withdrawal of 14 specific QCOs, the affected materials fall under categories such as:
- Polymer raw materials
- Elastomers & rubber-based materials
- Industrial chemicals
- Thermoplastic materials
- Petrochemical derivatives
These items were earlier placed under mandatory certification due to safety, quality, and environmental considerations. With the withdrawal, these products no longer require BIS certification for manufacturing, stocking, importing, or selling in India.
Impact on Manufacturers and Importers
The withdrawal of these QCOs changes the compliance landscape significantly. Here’s how:
1. Immediate Relief for Importers
Importers no longer need BIS certification for the 14 withdrawn items, avoiding delays triggered by mandatory testing and sample approvals.
2. Reduced Manufacturing Cost
Manufacturers Trusting on polymer or chemical raw materials will see reduced input costs and fewer compliance hurdles.
3. Smoother Supply Chain Movement
With BIS restrictions lifted, industries can procure raw materials without waiting for licence approvals.
4. Positive Impact on MSMEs
Small and medium enterprises that often struggle with expensive BIS testing and foreign coordination now get ease in procurement and production.
Industries That Will Benefit the Most
This withdrawal positively impacts several industries:
- Plastic & Polymer Industry
- Chemical Manufacturing
- Textile & Packaging
- Automotive Components
- Rubber and Elastomers Processing
- Paints, Coatings & Adhesives
- Footwear & Consumer Goods Manufacturing
These industries earlier reported higher costs due to QCO-mandated compliance for raw material import.
Does This Mean BIS Certification Is Completely Removed?
No.The withdrawal is subject to further government review. The Ministry may:
- Reintroduce QCOs with modifications,
- Expand the list, or
- Reinforce certification after consultation with stakeholders.
For now, the 14 QCOs are not applicable until further notification.
What Should Businesses Do Now?
1. Continue Maintaining Basic Quality Standards
Even though QCOs are withdrawn, manufacturers must ensure the quality of raw materials does not compromise final product safety.
2. Track Future Notifications
Businesses should stay updated with DGFT, DPIIT, BIS, and Ministry of Chemicals notifications.
3. Review Procurement Strategy
Importers can re-evaluate vendors and plan smoother, faster procurement cycles.
4. Prepare for Possible Re-Introduction
QCOs may come back in revised form; businesses should maintain necessary documentation and vendor compliance awareness.
Conclusion
The withdrawal of 14 BIS Quality Control Orders is a significant regulatory Ease for India’s chemical and polymer industries, giving manufacturers and importers more flexibility and lowering compliance costs. As the government continues to balance industrial growth with quality and safety, industries must remain vigilant and adopt best practices.
Why did the government withdraw 14 BIS Quality Control Orders?
The government withdrew these QCOs to reduce compliance burdens and support ease of doing business while reviewing regulatory requirements.
Which sectors are affected by the withdrawal of these BIS QCOs?
Key chemical and polymer industries are impacted, particularly manufacturers and importers dealing with the materials previously under mandatory certification.
Does this withdrawal mean BIS certification is no longer required?
For these 14 specific products, mandatory BIS certification has been removed, but other applicable standards and regulations may still apply.
