The Indian government has extended Quality Control Orders (QCOs) to over 150 new products, covering a wide range of items from household appliances to industrial materials. This initiative, led by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), aims to enforce stricter safety and performance standards across various sectors.
The list of products includes vacuum cleaners, stainless steel utensils, and massage appliances, among others. Different enforcement dates have been assigned to each sector to ensure smooth compliance with the new standards.
Key Compliance Deadlines Across Sectors
For electrical appliances operating on 250V single-phase or 415V three-phase power, the compliance deadline is set for March 20, 2025.
In the furniture industry, manufacturers of block boards, plywood, and wooden flush doors must adhere to the new quality norms. Meanwhile, the steel sector will face regulations for items like hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel strips.
The household segment includes items such as electric water heaters and solar water heating systems. New standards have also been introduced for fatty acids in the chemical and petrochemical sector, covering sources like palm, rice bran, and coconut.
Objective of Quality Control Orders (QCOs)
According to a senior official, the QCOs are designed to prevent the import of substandard goods and to ensure that consumers have access to high-quality products. The move is also part of a larger strategy to improve domestic manufacturing standards and curb low-quality imports.
The number of products under QCO regulations has increased significantly over the past decade. In 2014, only 106 products were covered, but this figure had risen to over 732 by October 2024.
Impact on Domestic Manufacturing and Imports
The expansion of QCO coverage is expected to benefit domestic industries by promoting the production of higher-quality goods. It also aligns with India’s broader focus on enhancing competitiveness in manufacturing while reducing dependency on inferior imported products.
The BIS will oversee the implementation and enforcement of these quality requirements, ensuring compliance across sectors. The government hopes that this initiative will bolster both consumer confidence and industry standards in India.
