India Tightens Market Access Rules for Machinery and Components – Extended Deadlines Give Manufacturers More Time

Originally, the regulation for certain product categories was set to take effect on 28 August 2025. However, on 13 June 2025, the deadline was officially extended to 1 September 2026.

Despite this extension, the need for manufacturers to act remains urgent.

1. Product categories affected

The QCO covers a broad spectrum of machinery and electrical equipment, including:

• All types of pumps for liquids, including assemblies and components

• Compressors and related components

• Centrifuges as well as filtering and purification machines for liquids and gases

• Cranes and assemblies

• Transformers and components

• Switchgear and control gear for voltages up to and above 1,000 volts

• Machinery and tools with electrical/electronic elements

• Electrical equipment for industrial applications

A complete product list is available on the official BIS website.

2. What does this mean for manufacturers?

All affected products require certification under the BIS Scheme X process. This procedure is considerably more complex than previous ISI certifications and includes:

• comprehensive technical documentation,

• product testing in accredited laboratories,

• on-site audits of manufacturing facilities by BIS inspectors.

Depending on the production model, manufacturers will receive either a license for. continuous production or a certificate of conformity for batch production. Since preparing the documentation alone can take several weeks and the entire process may require 10–12 months or more, early preparation is essential.

3. Other changes to QCO deadlines

In addition to the deadline extension for Scheme X, other QCO dates have also been adjusted:

• Electrical components (e.g., low-voltage switchgear): new deadline 10 November 2025 (previously 10 May 2025)

• Electrical household appliances: new deadline 19 March 2026

  o for micro-enterprises: until 1 January 2026

  o for small enterprises: until 1 April 2026

These extensions are largely a response to bottlenecks in accredited laboratories and feedback from industry regarding shortages of certified supply parts.

4. Tight schedule despite postponement

Even with the official deadlines pushed back, the schedule remains demanding. The number of BIS certification requests is already increasing rapidly – currently around 10–15 per week, in some cases significantly more. The first applications are already being processed. Companies that start the process now will secure a better position before capacity shortages at BIS lead to delays.

5. Recommendations for affected companies

• Check immediately whether your products fall under the QCO.

• Prepare the required documentation and test samples well in advance.

• Secure testing and inspection capacity early.

• Factor in storage and delivery times in light of the new requirements.

Conclusion: India remains a high-growth but increasingly regulated market. Companies that use the extended deadlines to prepare strategically can not only secure market access but also gain a competitive edge.