New Quality Control Order Enforces Standards on Stainless Steel Imports

The Indian government has instituted mandatory quality control for stainless steel pipes and tubes to curb sub-standard imports and boost domestic production. A legal order requires these products to carry Bureau of Indian Standards marks, with penalties for non-compliance including fines and imprisonment.

The Indian government is stepping up its efforts to ensure quality by implementing mandatory control measures for stainless steel seamless pipes and tubes. This initiative aims to reduce the influx of sub-standard goods, promote domestic manufacturing, and assure consumer safety.

According to a notification issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) on February 10, the new 'Stainless Steel Pipes and Tubes (Quality Control) Order, 2025' mandates that these items cannot be produced, sold, traded, imported, or stocked unless they bear the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mark. This order takes effect on August 1.

The measure, however, allows an exemption for up to 500 kilograms per year of these goods imported for research and development, provided they are not sold commercially. Violations of the BIS Act could lead to penalties, including imprisonment of up to two years and fines ranging from Rs 2 lakh to 10 times the value of goods for repeated offences. The DPIIT continues to play a crucial role by issuing Quality Control Orders to safeguard industries and consumers.