Hand Tools Quality Control Order 2026: BIS Certification, Revised Standards and Deadlines

Manufacturers of pipe wrenches, spanners, adjustable wrenches and certain types of pliers now have a revised timeline to prepare for mandatory BIS certification.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), issued the Hand Tools (Quality Control) Order, 2026 on 9 October 2026 under notification S.O. 5561(E). The new Order replaces the Hand Tools (Quality Control) Order, 2025 and identifies nine Indian Standards that covered products must follow.

This notification requires that the relevant hand tools conform to their respective Indian Standards and bear the BIS Standard Mark with an appropriate licence. The phased implementation shall commence from 1 April 2027 for general enterprises, 1 July 2027 for small enterprises, and 1 October 2027 for micro enterprises.

For manufacturers, this means checking whether their products fall under the notification, reviewing the applicable standards and preparing for certification before their deadline. Importers sourcing these tools from overseas manufacturers also need to verify the relevant BIS requirements.

The Order includes limited exemptions, but these come with specific conditions. Understanding those conditions is just as important as knowing the certification deadline.

Hand Tools Quality Control Order 2026 at a Glance

The Order itself came into force when it was published in the Official Gazette. The later 2027 dates are the scheduled dates for compliance with the Indian Standards. They should not be confused with the date the Order was issued.

What Is the Hand Tools Quality Control Order 2026?

The Hand Tools Quality Control Order 2026 is a government notification that makes specified Indian Standards compulsory for certain hand tools.

Indian Standards set out requirements for particular products. Depending on the standard, these may address dimensions, materials, mechanical performance, testing methods or marking.

Before treating a product as covered, the manufacturer must check whether it falls within one of the categories listed in the Order. The notification does not cover every product commonly sold as a hand tool.

Regarding covered products, the primary requirements are quite simple: the tool should conform to the Indian Standard and have the Standard Mark on an appropriate license from BIS when the date of implementation is applicable.

This has a practical effect on manufacturers producing several product varieties. A factory making adjustable wrenches and ring spanners, for instance, cannot assume that both products fall under one Indian Standard merely because they serve similar purposes. Each product category needs to be examined against the correct specification.

What Is the Legal Framework Behind the Hand Tools QCO 2026?

The notification has been issued under Section 16 of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. It also refers to the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

Role of DPIIT

DPIIT is the government department that issued the notification after consultation with BIS.

Through Quality Control Orders, the Central Government can make conformity with specified Indian Standards compulsory for notified products. This creates a legal requirement rather than leaving conformity entirely to a manufacturer's voluntary choice.

Role of the Bureau of Indian Standards

BIS is responsible for certification and enforcement under the 2026 Order.

Its role includes administering the applicable product certification process, granting licences where requirements are satisfied and enforcing the relevant provisions of the BIS framework.

Manufacturers should understand that certification is connected to specific products, standards and manufacturing arrangements. A licence is not an unrestricted approval for every product a business makes.

Why Does Scheme-I Matter?

The notification requires the Standard Mark under a licence issued according to Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

Scheme-I is associated with product certification and use of the Standard Mark, commonly called the ISI Mark.

For a covered hand tool, a manufacturer's own declaration that the product meets an Indian Standard is not enough to replace the required BIS licence.

Why Has the Government Issued the Hand Tools QCO 2026?

The notification states that the Central Government considered the Order necessary or expedient in the public interest.

It does not provide detailed findings about defective tools, industrial accidents or particular market complaints. Such reasons should therefore not be presented as confirmed explanations for the notification.

From a regulatory perspective, making Indian Standards compulsory can help establish consistent product requirements.

Hand tools are used in workshops, factories, construction activities, installation work and routine equipment maintenance. Their performance depends on factors such as design, suitability for the intended use and manufacturing quality.

Applying recognised specifications can support clearer quality checks by manufacturers and industrial buyers.

The Order also gives manufacturers defined standards against which covered products must be assessed. Instead of relying only on a supplier's own specifications, businesses can identify the applicable Indian Standard and verify the relevant certification.

These are general benefits of product standardisation, not outcomes specifically guaranteed by the government.

What Has Changed Under the Hand Tools Quality Control Order 2026?

The most important development is the replacement of the 2025 Order with a new notification that lists updated Indian Standards and revised implementation dates.

The 2026 Order makes the following provisions clear.

1. The 2025 Order Has Been Superseded

This notification hereby replaces the Hand Tools (Quality Control) Order, 2025, without prejudice to anything done or not done prior to such replacement.

Manufacturers should therefore refer to the 2026 Order when checking the currently notified implementation schedule, while also considering any relevant past compliance position.

2. Nine Indian Standards Are Listed

The Order specifies nine standards covering pipe wrenches, spanners, adjustable wrenches, chain pipe wrenches, slugging wrenches and combination side-cutting pliers.

A manufacturer producing several categories may need to examine more than one standard.

3. The BIS Standard Mark Is Compulsory

Covered hand tools must bear the Standard Mark under a BIS licence, in accordance with the applicable certification framework.

The requirement goes beyond simply obtaining an independent laboratory test report.

4. Compliance Dates Differ by Enterprise Category

There are different implementation timelines for the Order between general enterprises, small enterprises, and micro enterprises.

Small and micro enterprises get more time to prepare, but they do not get exemption forever.

5. Export and R&D Exemptions Are Provided

This Order does not cover products that will be exported and were produced in domestic industry.

This Order also provides exemption of hand tools for research & development in limited quantity.

6. BIS Will Handle Certification and Enforcement

BIS is identified as the certification and enforcement authority. Violations are punishable under the provisions of the BIS Act, 2016.

Hand Tools QCO 2025 vs 2026: What Is Different?

The 2026 notification makes two changes particularly relevant to manufacturers: it revises the implementation dates and replaces the earlier editions of the listed Indian Standards.

The previous Order, S.O. 5596(E), was issued on 4 December 2025. Comparing that document with the October 2026 notification makes the changes easier to understand. 

Comparison of Old and New Requirements

Revised Indian Standards: Old vs New

For manufacturers, the updated standards deserve particular attention. A business that previously examined an older version of a standard should not assume that the technical requirements remain unchanged.

It is necessary to examine the current standard before relying on earlier testing or technical documents. Whether an existing BIS licence needs modification or any additional assessment depends on the applicable BIS requirements.

The additional six months in the revised implementation schedule also gives affected businesses more time for preparation. It does not remove the underlying certification requirement.

Which Hand Tools Are Covered Under the Quality Control Order 2026?

The notification covers products falling within nine specified Indian Standards. These include several varieties of wrenches and spanners, along with combination side-cutting pliers.

Product-Wise List of Applicable BIS Standards

The list is taken from the official Gazette. 

Pipe Wrenches

Pipe wrenches are commonly used in plumbing, mechanical maintenance and industrial installation work. Their jaws grip pipes and similar components so that they can be turned.

The notification specifies two parts of IS 4003. Manufacturers must check which part applies to their particular product.

A business manufacturing more than one pipe wrench design should not assume that a single product description or licence automatically covers every variety.

Open Jaw and Ring Spanners

Open-jaw spanners and ring spanners are used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts.

The 2026 Order lists IS 2028:2026 for open-jaw wrenches and IS 2029:2026 for ring wrenches.

Although both tools perform fastening work, they have different designs and corresponding product standards. Manufacturers should evaluate them separately when preparing for BIS certification.

Adjustable Wrenches

Single-ended open-jaw adjustable wrenches fall under IS 6149:2025.

These tools allow the jaw opening to be adjusted for different fastener sizes. Manufacturers should examine the applicable specification for the exact product requirements.

Chain Pipe Wrenches

Chain pipe wrenches are covered by IS 4123:2024.

These tools use a chain arrangement to grip and turn suitable pipes or cylindrical components. Their construction differs from that of conventional pipe wrenches.

Manufacturers producing chain pipe wrenches should therefore check the separate standard rather than relying on the requirements for ordinary pipe wrenches.

Slugging Wrenches

The notification covers open-ended slugging wrenches under IS 4508:2024 and ring slugging wrenches under IS 4509:2024.

These are heavy-duty fastening tools commonly used in industrial maintenance.

The relevant standard determines the specific technical requirements for each category.

Combination Side Cutting Pliers

Combination side-cutting pliers are included under IS 3650:2026.

These tools are used for gripping, bending and cutting operations, depending on the product design.

Manufacturers should verify the relevant specifications before beginning product testing or certification preparation.

Does the QCO Apply to Every Hand Tool?

No. The Order identifies particular products and standards.

A manufacturer producing hammers, screwdrivers, saws or other tools should not automatically assume those products fall under this specific notification.

Each product must be assessed against the published scope of the Order and relevant Indian Standards. Other regulations may apply independently.

The Gazette also states that the latest versions of the Indian Standards, including amendments notified by BIS, will apply.

When Does BIS Certification Become Mandatory for Hand Tools?

The implementation dates are spread across three stages in 2027.

Implementation timeline under the 2026 Order

General enterprises

1 April 2027

Other than micro and small enterprises

Small enterprises

1 July 2027

As defined under the MSMED Act

Micro enterprises

1 October 2027

As defined under the MSMED Act

Deadline for General Enterprises: 1 April 2027

Manufacturers outside the micro and small enterprise categories are covered by the earliest scheduled implementation date.

This includes medium enterprises, since the notification does not provide a separate delayed date for them.

Deadline for Small Enterprises: 1 July 2027

Eligible small enterprises have until 1 July 2027.

They should use the additional time to review the technical requirements, identify any manufacturing gaps and prepare for the applicable BIS licensing process.

Deadline for Micro Enterprises: 1 October 2027

Micro enterprises have the latest implementation date.

The extended period is intended to provide more preparation time under the notified schedule. After the applicable date, covered products must satisfy the requirements unless a stated exemption applies.

How Should MSMEs Confirm Their Category?

The Order refers to micro and small enterprises as defined under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006.

Businesses should confirm their correct classification under the applicable MSME framework instead of assuming that every enterprise with an Udyam registration qualifies for the latest deadline.

Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Hand Tool Manufacturers?

Yes, for products covered by the notification after their applicable implementation date, unless an exemption applies.

The Order requires conformity with the corresponding Indian Standard and the BIS Standard Mark under a licence.

What Does the ISI Mark Mean?

The ISI Mark is the product certification mark associated with BIS Scheme-I.

It shows that the manufacturer has obtained authorisation to use the Standard Mark for products covered by the relevant licence.

For hand tool manufacturers, this means product testing alone cannot be treated as equivalent to having a BIS licence.

Who Needs BIS Certification?

The certification requirement is centred on the manufacturing entity and its covered products.

Indian producers will have to evaluate the relevant Indian product certification process. Foreign producers wishing to sell their covered hand tools in India will have to evaluate the relevant certification process for foreign manufacturers.

Importers and distributors should check product and manufacturer certification rather than assuming that an ordinary trading licence replaces the required BIS product licence.

Are Imported Hand Tools Covered Under the Order?

Imported hand tools intended for the Indian market require attention when they fall within the categories covered by the QCO.

The notification does not provide a general exemption for imported products.

What Should Indian Importers Check?

Importers should examine the exact product, corresponding Indian Standard and manufacturer's certification status.

Before placing orders for covered goods, practical checks include:

• Confirming the product category and notified standard.
• Checking whether the applicable implementation date has arrived.
• Verifying that the foreign manufacturer has the relevant BIS licence, where required.
• Confirming that the licence covers the product being imported.
• Reviewing whether any stated exemption genuinely applies.

This can help importers identify regulatory issues before goods are shipped.

BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers

BIS operates the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), through which eligible overseas manufacturers can apply for product certification.

The procedure can involve evaluation of the manufacturing facility, testing arrangements, an Authorised Indian Representative and other applicable conditions.

Foreign manufacturers should refer to current BIS guidance for the actual application requirements. 

What Exemptions Are Available Under the Hand Tools QCO 2026?

The notification provides two important exemptions.

Exemption for Domestically Manufactured Goods Intended for Export

Goods manufactured in India for export are excluded from the Order.

Manufacturers supplying both domestic and overseas customers should distinguish the relevant products and transactions when determining whether this exemption applies.

The exemption should not be used for hand tools intended for domestic sale.

Exemption for Research and Development Imports

The notification also exempts up to 200 goods or articles per year imported by hand tool manufacturers for research and development, subject to all specified conditions.

The R&D exemption is not intended for normal commercial imports.

A business cannot rely on this provision to import products for market testing through commercial sales or ordinary distribution if doing so would violate the conditions.

The exemption is useful only when the imported goods meet the stated purpose, quantity and disposal requirements.

How Can Manufacturers Obtain BIS Certification for Hand Tools?

Manufacturers looking for BIS certification for hand tools should begin with the product standard, not the application form.

Before applying, the business needs to know which standard applies, whether its manufacturing arrangements can meet the relevant requirements and what product varieties will be included in the certification application.

The following explains the general preparation and licensing stages under the BIS product certification framework.

Step 1: Identify the Correct Indian Standard

Start by reviewing the manufacturer's product range.

A business producing ring spanners and adjustable wrenches, for example, needs to examine the separate standards for those products.

The actual product scope should be checked before deciding on the certification requirements.

Step 2: Examine the Technical Requirements

Once the standard is identified, manufacturers should obtain and review the relevant Indian Standard.

The review may involve product specifications, manufacturing processes, testing arrangements and marking requirements.

Any technical gaps can then be assessed before the certification application.

Step 3: Prepare the Manufacturing Facility

BIS product certification involves assessing relevant manufacturing and testing capabilities.

Depending on the certification procedure and product, manufacturers may need to demonstrate suitable production arrangements, quality controls and testing facilities.

The requirements should be confirmed using the applicable official BIS guidance.

Step 4: Prepare and Submit the Application

Manufacturers should use the application procedure prescribed for the relevant BIS certification route.

Domestic manufacturers can refer to the BIS Manakonline system, while foreign manufacturers should review the FMCS requirements.

The application should identify the manufacturing premises, applicable Indian Standard and relevant product scope.

Step 5: Complete the Applicable Assessment

The BIS certification process can involve document assessment, factory inspection and product testing.

The exact procedure depends on the certification route and applicable BIS requirements.

Manufacturers should not assume that sending a product to a laboratory automatically completes the certification process.

Step 6: Obtain the BIS Licence

Once all the requirements have been satisfied and the licence is issued by BIS, the manufacturer can apply the Standard Mark as per the scope of the licence.

The issuance of a licence for a single product or standard does not necessarily mean that the licence applies to all types of hand tools manufactured in the facility.

Step 7: Complying with Certification Requirements

Once a certificate has been obtained, compliance with all licence conditions will still remain the responsibility of the manufacturers.

They should monitor changes to Indian Standards, maintain required records and follow BIS instructions relating to marking, surveillance and licence maintenance.

What Testing and Quality Requirements Apply to Hand Tools?

The Hand Tools QCO 2026 lists the applicable Indian Standards but does not reproduce their full technical specifications.

Manufacturers need to refer to the actual standards to identify the tests and requirements relevant to their products.

Product Design and Dimensions

Depending on the standard, requirements may address product construction, size, dimensions or other design characteristics.

Manufacturers should not rely only on market descriptions such as general-purpose wrench or heavy-duty spanner when deciding whether their product conforms.

Material and Mechanical Performance

Relevant standards may contain requirements relating to materials and mechanical performance.

The exact criteria must be checked against the applicable Indian Standard. It would be inaccurate to assign the same strength or durability test to all nine product categories without examining those specifications.

Product Testing

Product testing is used to establish conformity with relevant requirements.

The tests, sampling arrangements and laboratory conditions applicable to a particular manufacturer must be established under the relevant standard and BIS certification procedure.

Product Marking

Covered products must carry the Standard Mark under a BIS licence after their respective implementation dates.

Any additional product marking or identification requirements should be checked against the applicable standard and licence conditions.

What Documents Are Required for BIS Certification for Hand Tools?

The Hand Tools QCO itself does not provide a complete checklist of documents for certification applications.

The documents required by BIS depend on the relevant certification procedure, manufacturing arrangements and product category.

Manufacturers should refer to official BIS application guidance rather than treating a general consultancy checklist as a statutory document list.

For manufacturers importing hand tools under the R&D exemption, year-wise records are particularly important because the notification expressly requires them.

What Is the Cost of BIS Certification for Hand Tools in India?

There is no single certification cost stated in the Hand Tools Quality Control Order 2026.

The final expenditure can vary depending on the manufacturer's product range, certification route, testing requirements and readiness of the manufacturing facility.

BIS Application and Licence Charges

BIS prescribes relevant charges under its product certification framework.

Manufacturers should check the current official fee schedule for application, inspection, licence and marking fees.

Product Testing Expenses

Testing costs can depend on the applicable standard, number of relevant product varieties and tests required.

The QCO does not publish separate testing prices for the nine listed standards.

Manufacturing and Quality-Control Expenses

Some manufacturers may already have the technical arrangements needed for certification.

Others may need to review their production controls, testing equipment or product specifications.

Any expenditure on these adjustments will depend on the manufacturer's existing facilities and actual requirements.

Foreign Manufacturer Certification Costs

Overseas manufacturers should examine the applicable FMCS fee structure and related conditions.

The domestic certification costs are not to be assumed as the complete cost of the certification of a foreign manufacturer’s products.

Companies wishing for an estimate need to determine the relevant standard and the scope of the certification process. The BIS certification consultant will help in understanding the cost components without providing a definite number.

How Will the Hand Tools QCO 2026 Affect Businesses?

The notification is particularly relevant to businesses manufacturing, importing or supplying the listed products.

Its practical effects will not be identical across the hand tool industry.

Impact on Indian Manufacturers

Manufacturers need to check whether their existing production and certification arrangements cover the updated standards.

Businesses producing several covered products may have to review each standard separately.

Impact on Micro and Small Enterprises

Smaller manufacturers receive additional preparation time.

However, they may need to plan for technical assessments, testing and certification expenditure before their applicable deadlines.

Impact on Importers

Importers should coordinate with overseas manufacturers regarding product conformity and BIS certification.

The manufacturer's certification position can become an important part of procurement planning for covered tools.

Impact on Distributors and Industrial Buyers

The distributors and industrial buyers may want to scrutinize the certification process for suppliers.

The best course of action is to verify the Standard Mark and licensing for the product in question.

What Are the Penalties for Non-Compliance with the Hand Tools QCO 2026?

The notification identifies BIS as the certification and enforcement authority.

It also provides that any person contravening the Order will be punishable under the BIS Act, 2016.

The notification does not independently prescribe a particular fine or imprisonment term. The applicable statutory consequence must be determined from the BIS Act and the nature of the violation.

What Risks Can Businesses Face?

A failure to meet mandatory certification requirements may create both legal and commercial problems.

Potential business effects include difficulty supplying covered products, additional corrective expenditure and delays in fulfilling orders.

Businesses may also face questions from customers and industrial buyers about certification and product conformity.

These are possible consequences, not automatic penalties established by the notification.

What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Mandatory BIS Certification?

Mandatory standards can make product requirements more consistent, but certification also requires time and resources.

Potential Benefits

• Technical benchmarking standards: It is possible to develop against Indian Standards that are recognized. 
• Product quality certification: Certification provides a formal process of conformity assessment.
• Buyer confidence: Industrial customers can check whether a product falls within a BIS licence.
• Better manufacturing controls: Certification preparation may encourage businesses to review their production and testing arrangements.
• More consistent sourcing: Importers and buyers can use the applicable standard and certification information when evaluating suppliers.

Practical Challenges

• Multiple standards: Manufacturers producing different tool categories may need to examine several standards.
• Testing preparations: Some organizations might need to make certain technological preparations prior to getting certified.
• Costs associated with compliance: Application, testing, assessment and continuous licensing expenses.
• Foreign supplier coordination: Importers may need to work with overseas manufacturers to establish the relevant certification position.
• Timeline management: Businesses must prepare for the correct implementation date rather than assuming that all manufacturers have until October 2027.

For smaller manufacturers, these challenges may be more noticeable because certification work can place demands on limited technical and financial resources.

What Compliance Mistakes Should Manufacturers Avoid?

A few incorrect assumptions can make certification preparation more difficult.

Treating All Hand Tools as One Product Category

The QCO covers particular hand tools under nine standards. Manufacturers should not assume that every tool they produce is covered by the same standard.

Using Earlier Editions Without Checking the New Standards

The 2026 Order lists revised editions. Earlier test records or specifications should be checked before being relied upon.

Assuming MSME Registration Automatically Gives the October Deadline

The delayed dates differ between small and micro enterprises. The business's applicable classification must be established.

Confusing Testing with Certification

A test report is not automatically a BIS licence, and it does not by itself authorise use of the Standard Mark.

Treating the R&D Exemption as a Commercial Import Allowance

The exemption is conditional and expressly prohibits commercial sale.

Ignoring R&D Record-Keeping Requirements

Manufacturers using the R&D exemption must maintain year-wise records and make them available when requested by government authorities.

What Should Manufacturers Do Before the 2027 Deadlines?

Manufacturers should start with an assessment of their existing products and certification position.

A practical preparation sequence is:

• Review the product range. Identify all products potentially covered by the Order.
• Match the relevant standards. Determine the exact Indian Standard for each covered product.
• Confirm enterprise classification. Establish whether the general, small or micro implementation date applies.
• Look at the BIS licenses that exist. Examine the products covered and the standards for which certification already exists.
• Evaluate manufacturing capability. Determine what problems there may be.
• Evaluate testing requirements. Examine the Indian Standards and BIS process.
• Prepare certification information. Follow the correct BIS application route.
• Coordinate with suppliers. Ensure all manufacturing and certification requirements for imported products are taken care of.
• Exemptions should be evaluated with caution. Ensure that all the conditions under which the exemption was granted have been fulfilled.
• Keep checking for any official developments. See if BIS or DPIIT makes any more changes.

These measures are only recommendations and not a separate process created under QCO.

Is the Hand Tools QCO 2026 Beneficial or an Additional Burden for MSMEs?

For micro and small manufacturers, the 2026 Order brings both a compliance responsibility and additional preparation time.

Manufacturers that already maintain suitable product testing and quality-control arrangements may find it easier to prepare for the applicable BIS certification requirements.

However, businesses without established testing facilities or documented manufacturing controls may need to invest additional time and money.

The revised deadlines are therefore particularly relevant for smaller enterprises.

Small businesses have up to 1 July 2027 and micro-businesses up to 1 October 2027. The later deadlines will give sufficient time to evaluate the requirements but will not make the firms immune to mandatory conformity.

The value of the additional time will depend on whether manufacturers use it to identify their relevant standards, review their existing facilities and prepare for certification.

How Can Corpseed Help with BIS Certification for Hand Tools?

The first challenge for many manufacturers is establishing exactly which Indian Standard applies to their product. After that comes the work of reviewing certification requirements, technical documents and manufacturing readiness.

Corpseed helps manufacturers and importers with regard to regulatory assistance and BIS certification for hand tools by enabling them to know all the necessary regulations and how to get certified.

1. BIS Certification Consultancy

Corpseed can assist manufacturers in understanding the applicable BIS licensing framework, product coverage and certification requirements.

2. ISI Certification Services

Businesses seeking an ISI Mark licence can obtain support in identifying the relevant standard, reviewing application requirements and preparing certification-related information.

3. Product Compliance Services

Manufacturers dealing in several hand tool categories may need to evaluate multiple standards. Corpseed can support product applicability reviews and compliance preparation.

4. Technical Documentation Assistance

Certification preparation may require manufacturers to organise product specifications, manufacturing details and testing information.

Corpseed can assist in reviewing and preparing relevant documentation based on the applicable BIS requirements.

5. Product Testing Coordination

Where testing is required, Corpseed can assist businesses in understanding the applicable requirements and coordinating with appropriate testing facilities.

6. Importer and Foreign Manufacturer Compliance Support

Businesses importing covered hand tools can seek assistance in understanding relevant BIS certification obligations and foreign manufacturer requirements.

7. Compliance Readiness Assessment

Manufacturers can also review their existing certification arrangements, product specifications and relevant compliance gaps before the scheduled implementation dates.

Manufacturers and importers requiring BIS certification for hand tools can contact Corpseed for guidance on the applicable Indian Standards, BIS licence requirements and certification preparation.

Key Takeaways

The Hand Tools (Quality Control) Order, 2026 replaces the previous 2025 Order and specifies revised Indian Standards and implementation dates for covered hand tools.

The notification requires covered products to comply with their respective Indian Standards and bear the BIS Standard Mark under a licence.

The main deadlines are 1 April 2027 for general enterprises, 1 July 2027 for small enterprises and 1 October 2027 for micro enterprises.

The Order also provides conditional exemptions for domestically manufactured export goods and limited R&D imports.

Manufacturers should begin by checking whether their products fall under the nine notified standards. Those requiring certification should then examine the applicable BIS procedures and prepare for compliance before their implementation date.