- Move aims to prevent supply disruption, price volatility
- Exemption applies to shipments loaded before 31 Oct’25
The Ministry of Steel has granted a temporary exemption from mandatory Quality Control Order (QCO) compliance for select steel tubes and pipe products under IS 1161:2014, IS 1239 (Part 1):2004, IS 15155:2020, and IS 4270:2001 standards.
The order, issued on 6 October 2025, provides relief to importers for shipments of listed HS codes with a Bill of Lading dated on or before 31 October 2025. The move follows multiple industry representations citing advance payments and pending shipments that risked non-clearance due to the sudden enforcement of QCO regulations.
The exemption covers various structural, water well, and general-purpose welded/seamless tube and pipe categories, aiming to ensure uninterrupted supply and avoid short-term shortages in the domestic market. Industry sources note that while domestic mills are enhancing BIS-compliant production, import flow remains essential for maintaining market balance, particularly for niche grades and specifications.
Market participants expect this exemption to stabilise near-term supply in the structural and industrial pipe segments, easing potential price volatility and procurement delays. The Ministry may revisit QCO enforcement timelines once domestic production aligns with demand and compliance readiness improves.
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