Mandates 151 Indian Standards for Steel Raw Materials - Detailed Information

151 steel standards developed by the BIS, and then applied to the QCO, include requirements for consistent quality, testing protocols, and manufacturing characteristics. On 18th June 2025, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) issued this Instruction.  Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is required for both the input materials and completed steel products. The instructions relate to the Ministry of Steel's Quality Control Order (QCO), 2024, and apply to imports with a Bill of Lading dated on or after 16th June 2025. The Quality Control Order (QCO) mandates that steel producers, both domestic and foreign, obtain a Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) license.

Key Points of Instruction No. 16/2025-Customs

• Scope of Applicability 

Applies to all metals and metal products imported under Chapters 72 and 73. Involve the input of steel material used in the manufacture of products as per BIS standards. Notified through QCO (Quality Control Order) of the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024.

• Role of Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS)

All input materials used to make steel products must meet Indian Standards (IS) and be traceable via the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS), according to a mandate from the Ministry of Steel.

• Mapping of Standards for Input Materials 

Mapping produced with a cross-reference of the final product, IS standards, and input material.

Check the Process of BIS Certificate for Steel Products in India 

For example:

• Finished product IS 1786:2008 (High-strength deformed bars) maps to input IS 14650:2023 (Carbon Steel Cast Billets for Re-rolling).
• IS 6003:2010 (Indented Wire for Prestressed Concrete) links to IS 7904:2018 (High Carbon Steel Wire Rods).

• Effective Date 

All Bill of Lading dated 16th June 2025 or later must be effective.

• Customs-Field Officers' Role

Officers are required to check input standards compliance at the clearance stage. Officers are advised to be sensitized to these requirements in order to ensure standardised enforcement across the customs formations.

• Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI)

The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has issued a warning about supply chain interruptions and the high costs of compliance that companies must bear.

Conclusion

The new update for raw steel materials and products has brought changes towards quality, safety, and standardisation. The Central Board of Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued instructions to enforce BIS Compliance for steel raw material and products. It is essential to go through all the aspects of the new BIS Update. ERCS Pvt. Ltd., as a BIS Consultant, provide you with complete information regarding the new updates and QCO. We ensure quality, compliance, and growth.