BIS Extension Order for Acrylonitrile, Maleic Anhydride, and Styrene

Introduction to the BIS QCO for Acrylonitrile, Maleic Anhydride, and Styrene

BIS Quality Control Orders (QCOs) for Acrylonitrile, Maleic Anhydride, and Styrene were earlier introduced by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers in order to regulate the quality of these critical industrial chemicals that are used in plastics, resins, synthetic rubber, fibres, coatings, as well as other downstream industries.

These chemicals were brought under mandatory BIS certification in order to ensure consistent quality, reduce safety risks during handling and use, as well as to prevent the circulation of substandard or unsafe materials in the domestic market. The QCOs were mandated in the public interest to protect industries, workers, and end users who rely on these chemicals.

Key changes you should know

1. A Quality Control Amendment Order has been issued on 24 October 2024.
2. The amendment applies to Acrylonitrile, Maleic Anhydride, and Styrene.
3. The changed QCOs for the specified chemicals will be called:

• Acrylonitrile (Quality Control) Second Amendment Order, 2024
• Maleic Anhydride (Quality Control) Second Amendment Order, 2024
• Styrene (Vinyl Benzene) (Quality Control) Second Amendment Order, 2024

1. The implementation date has been extended.
2. BIS certification will remain mandatory once the QCO comes into force.
3. Products manufactured only for export continue to remain exempt from the provisions of this Order.
4. All other conditions of the earlier QCOs remain unchanged.

What is the date of implementation?

As per the latest amendment order, the revised implementation date is 24 October 2025.

Manufacturers and importers must obtain BIS certification before this date in order to continue supplying these chemicals in the Indian market.

Benefits of this Order for the Industry / Businesses

• Provides additional time in order to prepare for BIS certification.
• Ensures safer handling as well as consistent quality of industrial chemicals.
• Protects downstream industries from quality-related risks.
• Builds confidence among buyers as well as the industrial users.
• Promotes fair competition among compliant manufacturers.
• Supports long-term stability of the chemical sector.

Now, what to do?

Businesses that are dealing with Acrylonitrile, Maleic Anhydride, and Styrene in the Indian market should:

• Confirm whether their products fall under the notified QCOs.
• Identify applicable Indian Standards.
• Plan BIS certification activities well in advance.
• Arrange product testing, documentation, as well as comprehensive factory readiness.
• Complete certification before the revised deadline.

Brand Liaison provides complete assistance for Chemical QCO compliance, including scope assessment, standard interpretation, BIS testing coordination, certification support, as well as making businesses ready for the enforcement, ensuring smooth compliance before the 24 October 2025 deadline.