Newsletter V2 (11/3/25)

BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS (BIS) UPDATES

New Quality Control Order (QCO) for Furniture – Effective from February 2026

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has introduced a Quality Control Order (QCO) for furniture under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016. This order aims to regulate the quality of furniture sold in the Indian market. Key Highlights:

• Applicability: The order applies to manufacturers, importers, and traders of furniture, including work chairs, tables, desks, storage units, beds, bunk beds, etc.

• Mandatory BIS Certification: All specified furniture must bear the BIS Standard Mark under a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

• Effective Date: The order will come into force 12 months from the date of notification, i.e., from February 2026.

Exemptions:

• Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) are exempted for 18 months from the date of notification.

• Units with an investment in plant and machinery below ₹25 lakh and a turnover below ₹2 crore are permanently exempted, provided they are registered under the Udyam Portal.

Penalty for Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with the QCO may lead to penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

New Quality Control Order for Stainless Steel Pipes and Tubes – Effective from August 2025

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has introduced a Quality Control Order (QCO) for Stainless Steel Pipes and Tubes under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016. This order aims to ensure the quality of stainless-steel pipes and tubes in the Indian market.

Key Highlights:

• Applicability: The order applies to manufacturers, importers, and traders of:

  • Stainless Steel Seamless Pipes and Tubes (IS 17875:2022)

  • Stainless Steel Welded Pipes and Tubes (IS 17876:2022)

• Mandatory BIS Certification: All specified products must bear the BIS Standard Mark under a license from BIS.

• Effective Date: The order comes into force immediately from the date of publication in the official gazette, i.e., 11th February 2024.

Exemptions:

• Goods for Export: The order does not apply to products manufactured exclusively for export.

• Research and Development (R&D): Up to 500 kg of imported goods per year for R&D purposes are exempted, provided they are not sold commercially and are disposed of as scrap.

Penalty for Non-Compliance: Any person contravening this order shall be punishable under the BIS Act, 2016.

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FOREIGN TRADE POLICY UPDATES

Import Policy of Platinum

The Import Policy and Policy Condition of Platinum under HS Code 7110 of Chapter 71 of ITC (HS) 2022, Schedule-I (Import Policy) has been revised through DGFT Notification No. 60/2024-2025, dated 5th March 2025.

Under the amended policy, the product, which was previously freely importable, is now restricted.

However, Platinum alloy with 99% or more purity by weight of platinum remains freely importable.

Export Policy of Broken Rice

The Government of India has amended the export policy for Broken Rice under HS Code 1006 40 00 through DGFT Notification No. 61/2024-25, dated March 2025.

Previously restricted, Broken Rice is now freely exportable under the amended policy.

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CUSTOMS UPDATES

Introduction of Single Unified Multi-Purpose Electronic Bond (SEB) – “Ekal Anubandh” by CBIC

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) has introduced the “Ekal Anubandh” project through Circular No. 04/2025-Customs, dated 17th February 2025. This initiative aims to simplify trade processes by introducing a Single All-India Multi-Purpose Electronic Bond (SEB) for importers and exporters. The scheme applies to scenarios such as the Export Promotion Schemes and Warehousing Schemes (including MOOWR). The phased implementation and detailed advisories will be issued for smooth execution by DG Systems (ICEGATE).

Key Highlights of Ekal Anubandh (SEB):

• Single Bond Across India: Importers/exporters can now submit one unified bond instead of multiple transaction-wise bonds across different ports.

• Digital Execution: Bonds can be executed electronically through ICEGATE, eliminating the need for physical signatures or notary.

• Electronic Bank Guarantee (e-BG): Seamless linking of Electronic Bank Guarantees (e-BG) with the bond for greater transparency and efficiency.

• Reduced Cost & Time: This initiative eliminates the need for repetitive bond submissions, reducing administrative costs and processing time.

• Online Tracking: Real-time management and tracking of bonds and bank guarantees.

• Stamp Duty Payment: Electronic stamp duty payment and execution through National E-Governance Services Limited (NeSL).

Automation of Refund Application and Processing in Customs

Under Section 27 of the Customs Act, 1962, any person seeking a refund of Customs duty and interest paid or borne by them can now file an application online through the ICEGATE Portal.

• Deadline for Manual Processing: Manual processing will be discontinued after 31st March 2025.

• Transition Period: Refund applications can be filed either manually or online until 31st March 2025.

• Mandatory Online Applications: From 1st April 2025, only online applications will be accepted, except in exceptional cases with written approval.

• Detailed guidelines for refund processing will bei issued by DG Systems (ICEGATE).