Centre implements quality control orders with relaxations for MSMEs to safeguard domestic production

The Centre has begun implementing Quality Control Orders (QCOs) across several sectors while providing key relaxations for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to ensure that domestic production is not adversely affected, according to official sources.

Quality Control Orders mandate that specified products conform to Indian quality standards and obtain certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) before they can be manufactured, sold, or imported. The move is aimed at curbing the inflow of substandard goods, ensuring consumer safety, and promoting fair competition for domestic manufacturers.

Recognising the challenges faced by MSMEs in meeting new compliance requirements, the government has introduced a phased implementation of QCOs along with multiple exemptions and time extensions. Micro enterprises have been granted an additional six months, while small enterprises have been given three extra months to comply with the new quality norms.

To prevent losses due to unsold inventory, the Centre has also allowed clearance and sale of products manufactured or imported before the enforcement of QCOs for a period of six months from the effective date of the orders. This measure is expected to ease the transition for small manufacturers and traders.

In addition, exemptions have been provided for imports meant for exports and research and development purposes. Domestic manufacturers producing goods exclusively for export have been permitted to import required inputs without QCO restrictions, while up to 200 units can be imported for research and development without mandatory certification.

The government has further eased compliance costs for MSMEs by reducing BIS certification fees and relaxing technical requirements. MSMEs have been allowed to use accredited external or shared testing facilities instead of maintaining in-house laboratories, significantly lowering the financial burden of compliance.

Officials said the calibrated approach seeks to strike a balance between improving product quality and supporting ease of doing business. While QCOs are intended to strengthen domestic manufacturing by eliminating inferior imports, the relaxations aim to ensure that small enterprises are not disrupted during the transition.

The Centre reiterated that the implementation of quality standards is essential for boosting consumer confidence, enhancing India’s manufacturing competitiveness, and supporting long-term industrial growth, while MSMEs remain a key focus of the policy framework.