The Ministry of Steel (MoS) on April 27, 2026, notified regarding the QCO compliance exemption for Stainless steel flat (semi-finished and final) products.
The following has been stated:
• The Ministry, after receiving representations from MSMEs and reviewing the issue, has granted a temporary exemption from Quality Control Order (QCO) compliance for certain stainless steel products. This exemption applies to products covered under Indian Standards such as IS 6911 (plates, sheets, strips), IS 5522 (utensil-grade sheets and strips), IS 15997 (low-nickel stainless steel for utensils and kitchen appliances), and IS 14650 (intermediate flat products).
• The specific stainless steel grades covered are listed in the annexure of the order.
• The relaxation is time-bound and will be applicable only to imports where the Bill of Lading shows shipment on or before October 26, 2026, providing temporary relief to MSMEs facing compliance and supply challenges.
[Notification no. - S-20011/15/2024-TECH-Part(1)]
