Key Update On Import Exemption Before Quality Control Order Implementation

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, has issued Order S.O. 776(E) on 12 February 2026, which is a major reprieve for importers and businesses dealing with goods that fall under different Quality Control Orders (QCOs).

This is an important development that allows certain imported goods to be exempted from the requirement of BIS certification if the purchase order was placed before the date of implementation of the concerned QCO. The objective is to protect businesses from suffering losses due to goods that were to be imported before the implementation of the new rules.

Understanding the Import Exemption Rule

As per this notification, the import of goods without BIS certification is possible. However, this relaxation is subject to certain conditions and is valid only if the Bill of Lading and Bill of Entry are within 180 days of the QCO implementation date, specific to the shipment, if the purchase order was placed before the QCO implementation date. This implies that if the companies have placed orders for goods before the implementation of the QCO regulation, they can still import the goods without the need for BIS compliance.

Quality Control Order Table of Import Exemption

Purpose of the Government Notification

The government brought in this exemption to facilitate a smooth transition process for new regulatory requirements. Many companies place international orders months prior to delivery, and new requirements for compliance could result in delivery delays, losses, or blocked consignments. The notification supports trade continuity while ensuring the long-term goal of quality and safety for products as per BIS regulations.

Conclusion

The Order S.O. 776(E) brings in a significant transitional relief provision for companies impacted by new Quality Control Orders. This ensures that products ordered before the implementation of the new rules are not punished for the new BIS requirements, as long as the importers comply with the documentation and timeline requirements.
Companies can take advantage of this exemption by submitting the necessary documents to BIS within seven days and by ensuring that the shipment dates are within the 180-day timeline.

Anushka Pandey

Content Writer at ERCS Private Limited

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