In the dynamic landscape of Indian trade and industry, ensuring quality and adherence to standards is paramount. At the forefront of this regulatory framework stands the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the National Standards Body of India, governed by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
BIS is responsible for formulating Indian Standards and certifying products to ensure the availability of safe and reliable goods to consumers. The Central Government, in consultation with BIS, issues Quality Control Orders (QCOs) to mandate BIS certification for certain products, considering issues such as public interest, protection of human, animal and plant health, etc. Contravention of a QCO is punishable in accordance with the provisions of the BIS Act, 2016.
BIS at LKS
Till date, BIS has formulated Indian Standards for 22,000+ products, out of which 725+ products have been covered under the ambit of QCOs. It is a strong speculation that the Indian government will eventually take steps to mandate BIS certification for most of the daily-use, as well as industrial-use products.
We, at LKS, offer comprehensive support to help businesses comply with regulations set forth by BIS. Our dedicated team of attorneys can assist our clients at various stages and in multiple ways for obtaining the BIS license including filing the applications, supporting during the pre-application and post-application stages, drafting representations to the Ministries/BIS, advising in customs clearance, offering training on compliance protocols, etc.
The range of services include:
Product Assessment: Evaluation of the product specifications and determination of the applicability of the QCOs, Indian Standards, BIS Act, 2016, and relevant scheme under BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018
Advising and Drafting of Representations: Assisting in drafting representations or letters to the Central Government or/and BIS for seeking exemptions, extensions, or NOCs (depending on the facts and circumstances of the case)
Assistance in obtaining the BIS License: Comprehensive support in filing applications; reviewing and validating documents; liaison and co-ordination with BIS authorities, foreign suppliers, their representatives, etc.
Support in the Post-License Stage: Guidance on compliances and reporting to be done after obtaining the BIS license; periodic checks and validation, etc.
Formulation of IS/Initiation of QCO: Support in filing applications to the BIS for requesting establishment of a new Indian Standard or/and initiation of a new QCO to require compulsory certification.
Industry Updates
NEWS
Tightening the screws on imports – Bolts, Nuts and Fasteners QCO, 202415 July 2024 Imports under Advance Authorisations, and by EOUs and SEZ units – Compliance with certain QCOs relaxed
12 March 2024 Technical Barriers to Trade – 20 new specific trade concerns raised – Indian measures lead the table with 5 recent measures questioned at WTO
29 March 2021
