Sims 2.0 New Rules For Steel Import and Reliable Countries

The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has made some updates to its earlier notification dated June 13, 2025, related to the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS) 2.0. These updates will come into effect from August 5, 2025. The changes mainly focus on the advanced registration periods that importers must follow when importing steel products from certain countries.

As part of this update, the Government of India has changed the required advance registration period for applying on the SIMS 2.0 portal for the import of all steel products. However, this change does not apply to items that fall under specific HS codes listed under heading 7204 of the ITC(HS), 2022 schedule.

Important Timeline of Steel Imports for Different Countries

To make sure that the import of Steel Products is smooth and hassle-free, importers have to give prior notification. The number of days for the Foreign Manufacturer depends on the country. Below we have mentioned a table to show the time period during which the notice must be given before the shipment arrives: 

What is SIMS 2.0?

Under SIMS 2.0, all importers must register details of their steel consignments before the goods arrive in India. This system helps the government keep track of BIS Certification for Steel Imports, ensures better regulation, and provides more transparency in the process. The SIMS 2.0 portal collects important information such as:

• Type and quantity of steel being imported
• Country of origin
• Expected date of arrival
• Other shipment details

This helps the authorities assess import trends and take necessary actions if required.

Exemptions Under Specific HS Codes

These items are exempt from the new registration deadline and will follow their earlier or separate rules. Importers are advised to check if their product falls under these HS codes to understand whether the revised timeline applies to them or not. 
The changes in the advance registration period do not apply to certain steel items that are listed under specific HS codes in heading 7204 of the ITC(HS), 2022 schedule.

Learn Top Reasons Why a BIS Certificate is Needed for Imports

Purpose of the Change in Steel Imported Registration Period

The primary goal of changing the registration period is to:

• Better plan and enhanced coordination towards steel imports
• Allow the government to better manage of  steel supply and demand
• To prevent delays, the advance notice period has been increased to enable proper planning.
• Better real-time monitoring for a strategic perspective for planning and policy-making
• Particularly relevant is the changing landscape of global trade and India's desire to concentrate on developing its steel manufacturing sector.
• These changes are important for global trade and India’s effort to strengthen its steel industry.

Final Reminder for Steel Importers SIMS 2.0

We advise all steel product importers to do the following:

• Regularly check the SIMS 2.0 portal for updates
• Apply for registration at the correct time
• Be aware if the product you import falls under the exempt HS codes
• Don't wait until the last minute to register and risk delays or penalties
• If importers adhere to the amended rules, they will have a smoother clearance process and will be valuable suppliers of supply chain products with respect to government policy.

Conclusion

All steel importers need to be aware of the recent revisions to the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS) 2.0 and take action to comply with the revised timelines for registration as set by the Government of India. The revisions to SIMS 2.0 have been initiated to strengthen monitoring, increase transparency, and better manage the regulation of steel imports.
At ERCS Private Limited, as a BIS Certification Consultant, we will assist you in navigating regulatory changes with certainty. Stay aware. Stay compliant. Work with ERCS and import steel smoothly and efficiently.