- The move aims to prevent shortages, price volatility
- Industry cited prior payments and disruptions
The Ministry of Steel has granted a temporary exemption from mandatory Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) adherence for stainless steel flat products under IS 6911, IS 5522, and IS 15997 until 31 December 2025.
The order, issued on 6 October 2025, follows multiple representations from importers who highlighted that advance payments had already been made to foreign suppliers and that sudden enforcement of BIS compliance could disrupt imports. The ministry also acknowledged that domestic availability of 200 and 300 series stainless steel flat products remains insufficient to meet current demand, as local mills continue to ramp up production capacity.
The exemption is expected to ensure a steady inflow of material and prevent supply shortages or price volatility in the stainless steel market. Industry participants view this as a pragmatic move to balance regulatory implementation with market realities. BIS adherence is likely to be reintroduced once domestic production aligns with demand.
Market insiders expect this exemption is likely to ease upward pressure on HRC and CRC prices in the Indian market, as increased availability of imported stainless steel flat products is expected to boost supply and improve market liquidity.
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