BIS Certification for Writing and Printing Papers, Coated Paper & Board

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has released a significant Draft Quality Control Order (QCO) that affects all manufacturers, importers, and sellers of writing and printing papers, coated paper, and paperboard. The draft titled "Writing and Printing Papers, Coated Paper and Board (Quality Control) Order, 2025" mandates BIS certification under IS 1848 (Part 2):2018 to enforce uniform quality standards for paper products across India.

What is a BIS Quality Control Order (QCO)?

A BIS Quality Control Order (QCO) is a mandatory directive issued by the Indian government to ensure that specified products meet Indian Standards. This new QCO requires that writing and printing papers, coated paper, and board products must carry the BIS Standard Mark under Scheme-I of Schedule-II of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

Without BIS certification, it will be illegal to manufacture, import, sell, or distribute these products in India.

What is IS 1848 (Part 2):2018?

IS 1848 (Part 2):2018 is the Indian Standard that defines specifications for paper types such as:

• Airmail

• Manifold

• Cartridge (Drawing & White)

• Duplicating Absorbent

• Semi-absorbent Paper

• Poster Machine Glazed Types

These are commonly used for office documents, printing, duplicating, artistic use, and official records. Adherence to this standard ensures quality, durability, and performance across the paper industry.

Who Must Comply?

This BIS Certification requirement applies to:

• Existing BIS license holders

• New applicants

• Indian manufacturers

• Importers

• Sellers and distributors

All stakeholders must ensure that the paper products under the QCO comply with IS 1848 (Part 2):2018 and are certified by BIS.

BIS Certification Process

To comply with the QCO, products must:

• Pass quality tests at BIS-approved labs

• Undergo factory inspection

• Follow conformity assessment guidelines

• Carry the BIS Standard Mark before market release

Certification under Scheme-I also involves regular surveillance, annual renewal, and strict compliance with the BIS Act, 2016.

Compliance Deadlines Based on Enterprise Size

Implementation timelines vary based on the category of the enterprise:

• General Manufacturers 6 months

• Small Enterprises 9 months

• Micro Enterprises 12 months

Missing these deadlines may lead to fines, license cancellation, and product bans.

Paper Products Covered Under QCO

The QCO applies to paper types under the following Indian Standards:

• IS 1848 (Part 1):2018 – Account Book, Bond, Cream Laid, Azure Lead, etc.

• IS 1848 (Part 2):2018 – Airmail, Manifold, Cartridge Drawing, Duplicating types, etc.

• IS 4658:2019 – Coated Paper & Board (Art and Chrome Paper)

Exemptions in the Draft QCO

1. Export Exemption

Products manufactured for export only are exempt from BIS certification.

2. R&D Exemption

Manufacturers may import up to 5 tons annually for research and development without certification, provided:

• Goods aren’t sold commercially

• Used goods are scrapped

• Detailed records are maintained

Enforcement and Legal Implications

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the certification and enforcement authority. Non-compliance may lead to:

• Penalties under the BIS Act, 2016

• Suspension or cancellation of BIS licenses

• Seizure of non-compliant goods

• Legal action, including fines and imprisonment

WTO Notification and Global Trade Impact

On June 17, 2025, India notified this draft QCO to the WTO Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT). Member countries have until August 16, 2025, to submit comments. This step ensures the QCO doesn’t create unjustified barriers to international trade.

What Should Stakeholders Do?

To avoid disruption, stakeholders must:

• Identify applicable paper standards

• Begin the BIS certification process

• Conduct pre-compliance testing

• Engage with BIS-accredited labs

• Complete documentation and audit protocols

Post-Enforcement Consequences

Once the QCO is officially notified and the grace period ends, only BIS-certified products can be manufactured, imported, or sold. Failure to comply will be a legal offense.

Conclusion

The upcoming BIS Certification for Writing and Printing Papers, Coated Paper & Board under IS 1848 (Part 2):2018 aims to uplift quality, reliability, and trust in India's paper industry. The tiered compliance window helps businesses of all sizes adapt. However, early action is critical for a smooth transition and to avoid penalties.

For more information you can contact us at cs@absoluteveritas.com