Draft BIS QCO 2025 for Prelaminated Medium Density Fibre Board (IS 14587:2023)

Introduction to the BIS QCO for PMD Fibre Board

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued the Draft Preliminary Medium Density Fibre Board (Quality Control) Order, 2025.

Earlier, several wood-based panel products, such as Plywood and MDF, were brought under Quality Control Orders in order to ensure that only standard-quality products are sold in the Indian market. Continuing this approach, the government has now proposed mandatory BIS certification for Prelaminated Medium Density Fibre Board (MDF).

This draft order makes it compulsory for Prelaminated MDF boards to comply with Indian Standard IS 14587:2023. 

Key Changes You Should Know

1. Prelaminated Medium Density Fibre Board will now require mandatory BIS certification.
2. The product must comply with IS 14587:2023 (Prelaminated Medium Density Fibre Board Specification).
3. The BIS licence must be obtained under Scheme-I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.
4. The rule applies to all products manufactured, imported, distributed, or sold in India.
5. Products that are manufactured only for export purposes are not covered under this Order.
6. The latest version of IS 14587, including future amendments issued by BIS, will apply automatically.

What is the Date of Implementation?

• Effective Date (General Category): 6 months from notification in the e-Gazette
• Small Enterprises: 9 months from notification in the e-Gazette
• Micro Enterprises: 12 months from notification in the e-Gazette

The implementation timeline mainly depends on the size of the enterprise as defined under the MSME Act, 2006.

Benefits of this Order for the Industry

• This Order will help improve overall product quality in the Indian market.
• It will prevent the sale of substandard or low-quality MDF boards.
• It creates a competitive economy for genuine manufacturers who follow proper quality standards.
• Consumers, as well as bulk buyers such as furniture manufacturers and interior companies, will gain more confidence in certified products.
• It will also help Indian manufacturers to build a stronger reputation for quality compliance.

Now, What to Do?

Manufacturers as well as importers of Prelaminated MDF boards should begin preparation immediately, even though this is currently a draft order. Here are conditions that they should be aware of:

1. Check whether your product matches IS 14587:2023 requirements.
2. Get product testing done from a BIS-recognized laboratory.
3. Prepare documentation related to the manufacturing process as well as quality control.
4. Apply for a BIS licence well before your category deadline.
5. Review factory quality systems in order to meet BIS marking requirements.

Early action will help avoid last-minute delays, testing backlogs, or supply disruptions once the Order becomes final.

How Brand Liaison Can Support You

Brand Liaison works closely with MDF manufacturers, panel board producers, and importers in order to simplify BIS certification. From technical gap analysis and lab coordination to licence filing and compliance planning, our team ensures your application is accurate and complete the first time. For businesses dealing in multiple wood-based panel products, we also help create a structured certification roadmap so that compliance becomes a smooth business process.