Withdrawal of BIS QCO for Primary Lead

Introduction to the BIS QCO for Primary Lead

The Primary Lead (Quality Control) Order, 2025, has been issued by the Government of India to ensure that primary lead produced or supplied in the Indian market meets consistent quality as well as safety standards. Primary lead is widely used in batteries, cables, construction materials, and other industrial applications, where poor quality can cause safety risks and performance issues. In order to address this, the government has made it mandatory to regulate primary lead through BIS standards so that only reliable and quality-compliant material is available in the domestic market.

However, recently, the Ministry of Mines, after consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), has issued an official notification regarding the withdrawal of the Primary Lead (Quality Control) Order, 2025. Let’s explore what this order entails and what it means for businesses that are dealing with Primary Lead in the Indian market.

Key Provisions of the Recent BIS Withdrawal Order

1. The notification covers the Primary Lead (Quality Control) Order, 2025
2. The earlier notification issued regarding primary lead (IS 27: 2023) has now been rescinded/revoked.
3. The Quality Control Order (QCO) that prescribed mandatory BIS standards for Primary Lead is no longer valid, with immediate effect.

What Does This Notification Mean for Businesses?

The recent withdrawal order has notable implications for businesses. With BIS certification no longer mandatory for these products, companies can now operate more freely in the Indian market without facing any compliance-related obstacles. The removal of these regulatory requirements simplifies market entry, reduces legal burdens, and also makes cross-border trade smoother and more accessible for all stakeholders.

It's Good News for the Industry! 

The withdrawal is considered a progressive move for the industry due to many reasons:

• No mandatory certification required
  Companies dealing with Primary Lead are no longer legally required to obtain BIS certification for the product.
• More operational flexibility
  The standards previously mandated under the 2025 QCO are no longer compulsory. Manufacturers, importers, and traders now have more operational flexibility.
• Lower costs and burdens
  Reduced inspection, testing, and reporting obligations lead to lower operational costs and administrative burdens.
• Flexible imports
  Businesses can now source, produce, or sell Primary Lead without adhering strictly to BIS-specified norms, including imports from global suppliers.
• Labeling now optional
  Any labeling or packaging mentioning BIS compliance is now optional. Businesses are advised to update product information accordingly.
• Existing can be sold, no renewals needed
  Products already certified under BIS can continue to be sold, but renewal of BIS certification is not required.

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

Although BIS certification is no longer mandatory, it can be re-imposed in the future. Therefore, businesses are advised to:

• Maintain voluntary BIS certification to gain customer trust and remain worry-free if the Order gets reimposed.
• Stay informed about future BIS notifications to remain compliant.

Seeking professional guidance from expert BIS consultants, such as Brand Liaison, to navigate regulatory changes efficiently and cost-effectively, is definitely worth considering. With over a decade of experience in helping industries with BIS compliance, Brand Liaison provides proactive as well as customized solutions in order to ensure smooth operations in the Indian market. Ensure your business remains prepared for regulatory updates while functioning in a hassle-free manner.