In view of multiple industry representations and following the decision of the competent authority, the Government of India has announced an exemption for specific steel and related products from mandatory compliance with Quality Control Orders (QCOs).
Importers of the specified products namely Steel tubes for structural purposes, Steel tubes and tubular fittings, Drums and tins for edible oils, ghee, and industrial use, Stainless steel utensils and pipes Steel tubes used for water wells, and Hot dip galvanized stay strands and steel drums
will be exempted from mandatory adherence to QCO requirements for consignments shipped on board on or before October 31, 2025.
The directive was issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, with copies forwarded to the Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Director General, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for necessary action.
The decision is expected to provide interim relief to importers and manufacturers facing compliance bottlenecks under the QCO regime, while ensuring that trade operations are not disrupted due to procedural delays in certification and inspection.
Notification Details
Date: 06/10/2025
