BIS (Quality Control) Amendment Order 2024 for Footwear Made from Leather and Other Materials

Introduction to the BIS QCO for Footwear Made from Leather and Other Materials

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) had earlier issued the Footwear Made from Leather and Other Materials (Quality Control) Order, 2024, in order to ensure that footwear sold in India meets mandatory quality and safety standards.

As per the earlier QCO issued for these products: 

• Footwear made from leather and other materials was required to comply with applicable Indian Standards.
• Products were required to carry the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Mark.
• The order aimed to improve product quality, durability, as well as consumer safety.

Now, through the Footwear Made from Leather and Other Materials (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024, the Government has provided a relaxation for existing non-BIS-marked footwear stock.

Key changes you should know

1. The amendment now mainly allows the sale of footwear without BIS marking that was manufactured or imported before the commencement of the QCO.
2. This relaxation applies only to existing stock.
3. Such stock can be:
   1. Sold
   2. Displayed
   3. Offered for sale
4. The relaxation is valid up to 31st July 2026.
5. After this date, only BIS-certified footwear will be allowed to be regulated in the Indian market.

What is the date of implementation?

• The amendment comes into force from the date of publication in the Official Gazette.
• Sale of existing non-BIS-marked stock is permitted only up to 31st July 2026.

This provides a clear transition window for businesses to move to full BIS compliance.

Now, what to do?

Manufacturers, importers, as well as sellers of leather and other material footwear should carefully plan their compliance as well as inventory strategy.

Here are the key steps that businesses must follow:

1. Identifying footwear stock manufactured or imported before the QCO start date.
2. Planning clearance of non-BIS stock before 31st July 2026.
3. Ensuring that all new manufacturing, as well as the imports, are BIS certified.
4. Applying for BIS certification if not already obtained.
5. Maintaining clear records for inspection and enforcement purposes.

For complete assistance. That ranges from BIS certification support and documentation to compliance planning and stock transition management. Brand Liaison helps footwear businesses achieve smooth, timely, and risk-free compliance under the amended Footwear QCO. Call our experts today for more detailed consultancy and initiate your journey towards simple and smooth compliance for the Indian market.