BIS Extension Order Regarding Three Different Woven Sacks (IS 17399:2020, IS 11652:2017, IS 16709:2017)

Introduction to the BIS QCO for Woven Sacks

The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers had earlier issued a Quality Control Order (QCO) on 4th June 2024 covering three different categories of woven sacks, with the objective of ensuring consistent quality, safety, as well as absolute standardisation of packaging materials that are used across industries.

Under the earlier QCO, manufacturers and importers were required to make sure that the notified woven sacks conform to the applicable Indian Standards and bear the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) under a valid BIS licence. The order was scheduled to come into force on 6th September 2024.

However, recognising industry preparedness challenges along with the need for additional time to align manufacturing as well as certification processes, the Government has now issued a fresh notification extending the implementation timeline.

Key changes you should know

1. The Ministry has issued a new Quality Control Order dated 13th September 2024.
2. This notification does not change the scope or standards of the original QCO.
3. The products covered continue to include woven sacks conforming to:

• IS 17399:2020
• IS 11652:2017
• IS 16709:2017

1. The extension is purely related to the date of enforcement, providing relief to manufacturers as well as importers.

What is the revised date of implementation?

• Earlier enforcement date: 6th September 2024
• Revised enforcement date: 6th December 2024

This means the QCO will now become mandatory from 6th December 2024, unless further amendments or extensions are notified.

Now, what to do?

Manufacturers as well as importers of woven sacks should carefully use this extended compliance window in order to ensure smooth as well as absolutely timely adherence to BIS requirements.

Recommended action points include:

• Confirming product coverage under the applicable Indian Standards.
• Initiating BIS testing and certification under the relevant scheme.
• Aligning manufacturing processes with standard specifications.
• Completing documentation and factory readiness well before 6th December 2024.
• Avoiding last-minute certification bottlenecks as enforcement approaches.

For end-to-end support, ranging from scope evaluation and testing coordination to BIS licensing and compliance planning, Brand Liaison assists businesses in achieving seamless compliance with the woven sacks QCO within the extended timeline.