BIS Compliance News · 20 November 2025
Ministry of Steel order on the process for QCO exemption for steel imports from non-licensed manufacturers
The Technical Division of the Ministry of Steel issued an order dated 20 November 2025 (F. No. S-20011/33/2025-TECH) setting out the process for granting Quality Control Order exemption when steel is imported from a manufacturer that does not hold a BIS licence.
The order restates the basic rule: every steel grade covered by a Ministry of Steel QCO may be imported only from a manufacturer holding an operative BIS licence for that grade. Where an importer wants to buy a covered grade from a non-licensed manufacturer, it must apply for exemption.
Such applications are examined by the committee constituted under Order No. 1(9)/2019-TD of 14 May 2020, made up of representatives of BIS, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and domain experts. The order confirms this committee will continue to decide such exemption requests. The same day the Ministry also issued orders on HS-code exemptions and on input adherence for stainless steel flat products.
Who is affected
Importers and actual users of QCO-covered steel grades who source from overseas mills without a BIS licence.
What to do
- First check whether your supplier holds an operative BIS licence for the exact grade and standard.
- If not, apply to the Ministry of Steel for exemption with full technical justification before shipping, and do not assume approval.
- Track the Ministry of Steel QCO page for further exemption orders and cut-off dates.
Source: Ministry of Steel — Process of grant of exemption for steel grades covered under QCO (20.11.2025) · Ministry of Steel — Quality Control Orders page
Related guides
BIS Compliance News summarises official notifications in plain language. It is general information, not legal or regulatory advice — always confirm the current text of the order or notice, linked above, before acting.