Temporary Suspension of Linear Alkyl Benzene Quality Control Order 2026 - Key Updates

What is the Linear Alkyl Benzene (Quality Control) Order, 2022?

The Linear Alkyl Benzene (Quality Control) Order was published by the Government of India and can be found in the Gazette of India with notification number S.O. 1648(E). The order was created as part of its authority under Section 16 of The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act of 2016, which makes it mandatory for all linear alkyl benzene meeting the order's specification to follow relevant Indian Standards issued by the Government. To regulate and control the quality of linear alkyl benzene products, the purpose of the Order is to enforce compliance with mandatory BIS standards for linear alkyl benzene.

Temporary Suspension Period Under the Amendment

According to the notice, this suspension will expire at the earlier of 30 September 2026. Go through the table for details:
Effective Dates

Benefits of Suspension for Manufacturers and Importers

Although there is no specific mention of the advantages of the provisional suspension in this notice, it is anticipated to affect the following areas during the defined time frame, from 1 July 2026 to 30 September 2026.

• The use of linear alkyl benzene (LAB) will be maintained within the supply chain by keeping it accessible in India.
• The ability to maintain a supply of LAB in the Indian market will reduce the effect of global supply chain disruptions experienced by Indian consumers in procuring LAB.
• The continuous operation of industries that rely on a reliable source of LAB will be optimally supported.
• The period of suspension will provide temporary regulatory flexibility.
• Businesses may utilise the temporary regulatory flexibility to manage their supply shortages resulting from the ongoing impacts of global supply chain disruptions.

Why Has the Government Issued This Amendment?

An amendment has been issued due to a disruption in the global supply chain, which is affecting supplies of Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB). After consulting with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the Government determined that it was necessary and expedient to suspend the operation of the Linear Alkyl Benzene (Quality Control) Order 2022, for the time being, in the public interest.

• To mitigate the effects of ongoing global supply chain disruptions
• To increase the availability of Linear Alkyl Benzene in India
• To suspend the operation of the Linear Alkyl Benzene (Quality Control) Order 2022 for the time being
• An amendment to the Quality Control Order has been issued for the public good
• The decision was made following discussions with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)

Conclusion 

As per Notification S.O. 3456(E) dated 25 June 2026, the Linear Alkyl Benzene (Quality Control) Order, 2022 has been put on hold from 1 July 2026 to 30 September 2026. This amendment is in light of the current disarray in the global supply chain and to ensure that there is enough Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) in India.

Manufacturers, importers and other people dealing with LAB need to keep themselves updated on this temporary hold and to pay attention to future notifications from the Government regarding when the Quality Control Order will be reinstated or amended further. 

If you require assistance in understanding what is required by the BIS Quality Control Orders, any regulatory updates, or the requirements for compliance with your product, ERCS Private Limited offers help in navigating through the latest BIS regulations and assists as an expert in your compliance journey.