Here’s a detailed article based on the provided information from JETRO, explaining the Indian Ministry of Steel’s new regulation:
India Mandates BIS Certification for Imported Steel: What Businesses Need to Know
Tokyo, Japan – June 26, 2025 – The Indian Ministry of Steel has issued a new directive making it mandatory for imported steel products used as input materials to comply with Indian Standard (IS) certification. This significant policy change, announced by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), will have a substantial impact on international steel suppliers aiming to export to the Indian market.
What is the New Regulation?
Effective from a date yet to be specified, but anticipated soon, any steel products that are to be used as raw materials or intermediate components in manufacturing processes within India will require the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification. This means that foreign steel manufacturers will need to ensure their products meet the specific quality and safety standards set by the BIS to be imported and utilized in India.
Why is India Implementing This?
The primary objective behind this move is to ensure the quality and safety of steel used in India’s burgeoning manufacturing and infrastructure sectors. India has been experiencing rapid economic growth, with significant investments in construction, automotive, and various other manufacturing industries that rely heavily on steel. By mandating BIS certification, the Indian government aims to:
- Uphold Quality Standards: Guarantee that imported steel meets rigorous quality benchmarks, preventing the use of substandard materials that could compromise the integrity of end products and infrastructure projects.
- Promote Fair Competition: Create a level playing field for domestic steel producers who already adhere to BIS standards.
- Enhance Product Safety: Protect consumers and the public by ensuring that steel used in critical applications is safe and reliable.
- Support Domestic Manufacturing: Encourage the use of domestically produced steel that already meets BIS standards.
What Does BIS Certification Entail?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India. Obtaining BIS certification for steel products typically involves:
- Product Testing: Manufacturers must submit samples of their steel products to BIS-approved laboratories for testing against relevant Indian Standards (IS codes).
- Factory Audits: BIS may conduct inspections of the manufacturing facilities to ensure consistent quality control processes are in place.
- Granting of License: Upon successful testing and audits, a BIS license is granted, allowing the use of the Standard Mark (a conformity mark) on the products.
Implications for International Steel Suppliers:
This new regulation presents both challenges and opportunities for global steel companies:
Challenges:
- Compliance Costs: Obtaining BIS certification can involve significant costs related to testing, documentation, and potentially factory upgrades to meet Indian standards.
- Time Delays: The certification process can be time-consuming, potentially leading to delays in market entry for new suppliers or products.
- Adaptation of Standards: Manufacturers may need to adjust their production processes or product specifications to align with specific Indian Standard requirements, which might differ from international norms they are accustomed to.
- Market Access Barriers: Companies unable or unwilling to obtain BIS certification will be effectively barred from exporting steel products used as input materials to India.
Opportunities:
- Increased Demand for Certified Products: As the market becomes more regulated, there will be a higher demand for steel products that have already achieved BIS certification, creating an advantage for compliant suppliers.
- Partnerships with Indian Businesses: Companies that can navigate the certification process may find opportunities to partner with Indian manufacturers and distributors.
- Focus on Quality and Reliability: This regulation encourages a stronger emphasis on product quality and reliability, which can ultimately benefit businesses that prioritize these aspects.
What Businesses Should Do:
International steel manufacturers and exporters, particularly those in Japan and other major steel-producing nations, should take the following steps:
- Identify Applicable Indian Standards: Thoroughly research which specific Indian Standards (IS codes) apply to their steel products intended for use as input materials in India.
- Initiate BIS Certification Process: Begin the process of obtaining BIS certification for relevant products as soon as possible to avoid future disruptions.
- Consult with Experts: Engage with consultants or industry associations that have expertise in BIS certification to understand the requirements and navigate the process efficiently.
- Review Product Specifications: Assess whether existing product specifications align with Indian Standards and make necessary adjustments.
- Monitor Official Announcements: Stay updated on any further announcements or clarifications from the Indian Ministry of Steel or BIS regarding the implementation timeline and specific product categories.
Conclusion:
The Indian Ministry of Steel’s decision to mandate BIS certification for imported steel input materials signifies a critical step towards enhancing product quality and safety within the country’s vital manufacturing and infrastructure sectors. While this presents compliance challenges for international suppliers, it also underscores India’s commitment to building a robust and reliable industrial ecosystem. Businesses that proactively adapt to these new regulations will be better positioned to access and thrive in the dynamic Indian market.
鉄鋼省、輸入鉄鋼製品の投入原料に対するインド標準規格取得の義務化通達
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At 2025-06-26 05:45, ‘鉄鋼省、輸入鉄鋼製品の投入原料に対するインド標準規格取得の義務化通達’ was published according to 日本貿易振興機構. Please write a detailed article with related information in an easy-to-understand manner. Please answer in English.