Govt issues stricter quality norms for over 150 products under QCOs

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has pre-listed these 150 products to enhance awareness, PTI reported.

The mandatory standards will apply across various sectors, with different enforcement timelines for each.

BIS will oversee implementation, with the list encompassing products such as vacuum cleaners, stainless steel utensils, and massage appliances.

For electrical appliances operating on 250V single-phase or 415V three-phase power, compliance must be met by March 20.

In the furniture sector, manufacturers will need to adhere to quality norms for block boards, plywood, and wooden flush doors.

The steel industry will face regulations for hot-rolled and cold-rolled steel strips, while household products under the mandate include electric water heaters and solar water heating systems.

"QCOs are designed to prevent the import of substandard goods and ensure consumer access to high-quality products," a senior official was quoted as saying by PTI.

The number of products under QCO regulations has risen significantly from 106 in 2014 to over 732 by October 2024.

This initiative is part of India's broader strategy to enhance domestic manufacturing standards while restricting the entry of low-quality imports.

The chemical and petrochemical industries will also see new quality standards for various fatty acids derived from sources such as palm, rice bran, and coconut.