BIS Quality Control Amendment Order 2025 for Refined Nickel - IS 2782

Introduction to the BIS QCO for Refined Nickel

The Refined Nickel (Quality Control) Order, 2025, was originally issued to make BIS certification mandatory for all refined nickel that is produced, imported, or sold in India. Refined nickel is an important industrial metal that is widely used in stainless steel, alloys, batteries, as well as various specialty chemical applications, where high purity, uniform composition, as well as safety are very important. The QCO was mandated to ensure that all refined nickel in the Indian market meets the quality as well as the safety requirements that have been specified under IS 2782:2023, preventing substandard or unsafe products from entering industries and end-use applications. 

However, the BIS has recently issued an Order for the amendment of this Quality Control Order for nickel. Let us understand the implications and changes that have been brought forward. 

Key Changes You Should Know

The Refined Nickel (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2025, amends the previously issued QCO for Refined Nickel. 

1. The main change is the extension of the enforcement date.
2. All other provisions of the original order remain unchanged, meaning that all manufacturers, importers, as well as distributors must still comply with IS 2782:2023.
3. Like earlier, they will have to obtain a valid BIS license under Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018, once the enforcement date arrives.

What is the Date of Implementation?

The original Refined Nickel QCO was published on 17th April, 2025. As per this amendment dated 25th September, 2025, the new enforcement date is 17th April, 2026.

This provides industries a one-year window to prepare for compliance with BIS certification requirements.

Benefits of the Extension for Businesses

The extension allows businesses with many benefits, such as:

• Access to complete product testing in BIS-approved laboratories.
• Fulfill BIS certification and documentation requirements without having to go through any rush.
• Avoid potential disruption in supply chains by planning compliance in advance.
• Ensure that refined nickel supplied to industries meets standardized quality as well as prescribed safety norms.
• Enhance industrial and consumer confidence in their products through verified BIS certification.

Now, What to Do?

Manufacturers, importers, as well as distributors of refined nickel should:

1. Start preparing for BIS certification immediately if not already been done.
2. Collect product samples and conduct testing according to IS 2782:2023 in BIS-recognized laboratories.
3. Apply for a BIS license under Scheme-I through the BIS portal, ensuring all documentation is complete.
4. Plan inventory and supply chain adjustments in order to align with the new enforcement date of 17th April, 2026.
5. Stay updated with BIS notifications or amendments that may impact enforcement or compliance requirements.

Brand Liaison can assist with end-to-end BIS compliance, including testing coordination, documentation, licensing, as well as comprehensive strategic planning, ensuring a smooth transition to full compliance with the BIS QCO for Refined Nickel.