Withdrawal of BIS QCOs for Major Petrochemical and Polymer Products

Introduction to the BIS QCOs for Specified Chemicals

The BIS Quality Control Orders (QCOs) for the specified chemicals and polymer materials have been introduced in order to ensure consistent quality, safety, and reliable performance of several important raw materials that are widely used across textiles, plastics, packaging, automotive, electrical, construction, as well as various consumer goods industries. Products such as Terephthalic Acid, Ethylene Glycol, polyester yarns and fibres, and polymers such as ABS, PP, PVC, EVA, Polyurethanes, and Polycarbonate form the backbone of several downstream manufacturing processes, where poor-quality inputs can lead to product failure, safety risks, as well as several environmental concerns.

However, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), through the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, has recently announced a major update on 12th November 2025, withdrawing several Quality Control Orders (QCOs) related to petrochemical and polymer products.

This decision marks a significant regulatory change, offering flexibility to industries and aligning certification requirements with evolving market dynamics. Let us understand the provisions and implications of this withdrawal notification.

Key Changes You Should Know

The Ministry, through notifications numbered S.O. 5129(E) to S.O. 5140(E), has formally rescinded a set of previously mandated QCOs concerning key petrochemical and polymer-based materials.

The following materials have been excluded from the mandatory BIS certification list, with effect from the date of publication in the Gazette of India:

1. Terephthalic Acid: IS 15030:2022
2. Ethylene Glycol: IS 5295:2023
3. 100 percent Polyester Spun Yarn: IS 17265: 2023
4. Polyester Industrial Yarn (IDY): IS 17264:2022
5. Polyester Staple Fibre (PSF): IS 17263:2022
6. Polyester Continuous Filament Fully Drawn Yarn (FDY): IS 17261:2022
7. Polyester Partially Oriented Yarn (POY): IS 17262:2022
8. Polyethylene Material for Moulding and Extrusion: IS 7328:2020
9. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): IS 17077:Part 1:2022
10. Polypropylene (PP) Material for Moulding and Extrusion: IS 10951:2020
11. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Homopolymers: IS 17658:2021
12. Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) Copolymers: IS 13601:1993
13. Polycarbonate: IS 14434:2023
14. Polyurethanes: IS 17397 (Part 1): 2020

The Quality Control Orders (QCOs), earlier introduced between 2021 and 2024 for these items, now stand withdrawn. The standards related to these products are no longer enforceable, allowing unrestricted production, import, and sale in the Indian market.

What Does This Notification Mean for Businesses?

The rescission of QCOs represents a major relaxation for businesses dealing with the above petrochemical and polymer materials. The absence of mandatory BIS certification now allows easier market entry, smoother operations, and improved trade flow across sectors.

Companies can continue their activities without undergoing the certification process, thereby reducing compliance time and costs. Importers and domestic manufacturers alike gain flexibility in managing supply chains and sourcing raw materials, as no immediate regulatory approvals are now needed for these specific products. 

It’s Good News for the Industry!

The withdrawal order has brought a wave of relief and optimism within the chemical and polymer industries. 

The following advantages are expected to positively influence the market:

• Simplified Regulatory Process
  Manufacturers and traders are no longer obligated to apply for BIS certification or undergo routine conformity assessments for the withdrawn materials.
• Improved Operational Efficiency
  The removal of certification mandates reduces paperwork, factory inspections, and delays, enabling companies to focus on production and distribution rather than administrative formalities.
• Cost and Time Savings
  The rescission minimizes testing expenses, licensing charges, and renewal fees, leading to substantial financial relief for large and small enterprises alike.
• Stronger Trade Flexibility
  International suppliers can now export these materials to India without prior BIS approval, promoting smoother trade and competitive pricing in the market.
• Business Confidence and Expansion
  This regulatory relaxation provides businesses with the confidence to plan new investments, partnerships, and production expansions without fearing compliance interruptions.

In essence, this withdrawal encourages industrial ease and promotes unhindered business growth while still allowing companies to maintain internal quality benchmarks voluntarily.

Brand Liaison: Reliable BIS Consultant to Help You Stay Compliant for Future Prospects

While the BIS Quality Control Orders for the above-listed materials have been revoked, it is essential to remember that such certifications can be amended anytime as per government directives. To remain future-ready, businesses are encouraged to adopt voluntary BIS compliance, which helps them:

• Maintain credibility and brand reputation among clients and distributors.
• Operate smoothly in case the certification becomes mandatory again in the future.

Remaining informed about every new BIS notification, amendment, or withdrawal is vital for staying ahead in the competitive Indian market. With years of experience, Brand Liaison provides professional guidance for BIS registration, documentation, and product compliance, helping manufacturers and importers handle every regulatory update with ease.

Stay proactive and safeguard your operations with Brand Liaison’s expert BIS consulting services, ensuring your business remains compliant, trusted, and prepared for future regulatory developments.