The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers (Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals) has withdrawn Quality Control Orders (QCOs) on six industrial chemicals with immediate effect, streamlining regulatory norms for the chemical manufacturing sector.
Decision Made in Public Interest
The withdrawal, issued under Section 16 of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016, follows consultations with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The government stated that the move was taken “in the public interest”, reflecting a balanced approach between regulation and industry growth.
Chemicals No Longer Under Mandatory BIS Certification
Through separate notifications (S.O. 4780 to S.O. 4785, dated October 22, 2025), the government rescinded the following 2022 Quality Control Orders:
*Lauric Acid (Quality Control) Order, 2022 – S.O. 1961(E)
*Acid Oil (Quality Control) Order, 2022 – S.O. 1962(E)
*Palm Fatty Acids (Quality Control) Order, 2022 – S.O. 1963(E)
*Rice Bran Fatty Acids (Quality Control) Order, 2022 – S.O. 1964(E)
*Coconut Fatty Acids (Quality Control) Order, 2022 – S.O. 1965(E)
*Hydrogenated Rice Bran Fatty Acids (Quality Control) Order, 2022 – S.O. 1967(E)
With this decision, these six chemicals are no longer subject to mandatory BIS certification or ISI marking requirements under the respective 2022 orders.
Legal Basis and Background
Under Section 16 of the BIS Act, 2016, the Central Government retains the authority—after consultation with BIS—to modify or rescind Quality Control Orders if deemed necessary in the public interest. The now-withdrawn QCOs were originally introduced in April 2022 to ensure the standardization and quality of industrial chemicals. However, after stakeholder consultations and market review, authorities determined that the continued enforcement of these standards was not essential at this stage.
Industry Impact and Compliance Relief
The revocation will relieve manufacturers, importers, and traders—especially in the oleochemicals and fatty acids sector—by reducing compliance hurdles. Although BIS certification is no longer mandatory, companies must still follow all relevant industrial, environmental, and safety regulations governing product quality and sustainability. This move will enhance the ease of doing business, particularly benefiting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and export-oriented units in downstream chemical industries.
Simplifying Regulations for Industrial Growth
By revoking these Quality Control Orders, the government reinforces its commitment to regulatory simplification and industrial competitiveness. As reported by legalitysimplified.com, the ministry emphasized its commitment to continuously reviewing and updating quality standards. These updates will respond to technological advancements and market dynamics, ensuring that India’s chemical sector remains robust and globally competitive.
