BIS QCO Regarding Aluminium and Aluminium Alloy Products

Introduction to the BIS QCO for Aluminium and Aluminium Alloy Products

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has recently introduced a Quality Control Order (QCO) for Aluminium and Aluminium Alloy Products in order to ensure that these widely used materials meet minimum quality as well as safety standards.

Aluminium products are commonly used in construction, transport, electrical applications, packaging, and daily-use items. The QCO has been brought in to prevent the use of low-quality aluminium products, protect users, and ensure consistency in products sold in the Indian market. BIS certification has been made mandatory in the public interest.

Key changes you should know

1. A new Quality Control Order was issued on 25 October 2024.
2. This Order will be called the Aluminium and Aluminium Alloy Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024.
3. BIS certification with ISI Mark will be mandatory once the QCO comes into force.
4. Different implementation dates are provided for general, small, and micro enterprises.
5. BIS will act as the certifying as well as the enforcing authority.
6. Products imported only for research and development (R&D) are exempt up to a specified limit of 200 kilograms.
7. R&D imports must not be sold commercially and must be disposed of as scrap with proper records.

What is the date of implementation?

The implementation dates under this QCO are:

1. General Enterprises (other than Micro & Small): 1st April 2025
2. Small Enterprises: 1st July 2025
3. Micro Enterprises: 1st October 2025

Manufacturers must comply as per their applicable category.

Benefits of this Order for the Industry / Businesses

• Ensures consistent quality of aluminium and alloy products.
• Protects users from substandard materials.
• Improves trust as well as credibility of certified products.
• Allows additional time for MSMEs in order to prepare for compliance.
• Encourages fair competition in the aluminium sector.
• Supports long-term growth of the industry.

Now, what to do?

Manufacturers of aluminium and aluminium alloy products should:

• Check whether their products are covered under this QCO.
• Identify the applicable Indian Standards.
• Confirm their enterprise category and compliance deadline.
• Start BIS ISI certification planning in advance.
• Maintain proper records for any R&D imports, if applicable.

Brand Liaison provides complete assistance for Aluminium QCO compliance, including product scope assessment, standard interpretation, BIS testing coordination, certification support, as well as complete readiness for enforcement, helping businesses meet the 2025 implementation deadlines smoothly and without facing any disruption.