BIS Withdrawal QCO 2026 for the Cotton Bales

Introduction to the Cotton Bales (Quality Control) Order, 2023

The Ministry of Textiles introduced the Cotton Bales (Quality Control) Order, 2023, to ensure the quality and standardization of cotton bales in India.

According to this Order, manufacturers and importers are no longer required to comply with the Indian Standards and get the necessary BIS certification for cotton bales for selling and importing in the Indian market.

However, the Central Government has now officially withdrawn this Order in the public interest.

Key Points You Should Know

Here are the major highlights of the notification that you must know:

1. The Cotton Bales (Quality Control) Order, 2023, notified on 28th February 2023 and published on 1st March 2023, has been withdrawn.
2. The Ministry of Textiles has withdrawn the QCO as per the provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.
3. The withdrawal has come into effect immediately from 9th June 2026.
4. The actions taken or omitted before the withdrawal of the QCO shall remain valid.
5. There is no further need for mandatory compliance under this Order.

What Does This Mean for Businesses?

Through the withdrawal of the Cotton Bales (Quality Control) Order, 2023:

• Businesses are no longer required to get BIS certification because of the withdrawn Order for cotton bales.
• There can be import and sale of cotton bales without complying with the requirements of the rescinded Order.
• The manufacturers and importers are not required to invest in the certification, testing, and approvals under this regulation.
• The regulatory process becomes simple for cotton manufacturers, traders, and importers.
• Easy market access has been provided for domestic and foreign manufacturers.

It is Good News for the Cotton Industry!

There are several benefits to the industry, including:

• No requirement for mandatory BIS certification
• Elimination of certification and testing costs
• Simple regulatory framework for cotton bale manufacturers and importers
• Smoother business operations with faster trade
• Reduction in the documentation and approval requirements

Thus, this decision removes the mandatory compliance obligation for the cotton industry and supports ease of doing business in the sector.

Brand Liaison – Your Trusted Partner for Regulatory Updates

With the withdrawal of the Cotton Bales (Quality Control) Order, 2023, the manufacturers and importers should continue monitoring regulatory updates, as new Quality Control Orders (QCOs) or revised compliance requirements may be introduced for the change in the future.

With over a decade of experience, Brand Liaison provides professional assistance in BIS certification, QCO compliance, regulatory updates, application filing support, and government coordination.

Stay compliant and ahead with Brand Liaison—your trusted partner for product certification compliance in India.