The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has released a draft Quality Control Order (QCO) titled "Stainless Steel Pipes and Tubes (Quality Control) Order, 2024," which will take effect from August 1, 2025.

The latest order mandates that all Stainless Steel Welded Pipes and Tubes for general service must comply with Indian Standard IS 17876: 2022. These products must bear the Standard Mark, authorized by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under Scheme-1 of Schedule-II of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.

Exemptions & Special Provisions

Exports: This order does not apply to goods manufactured domestically for export.

Research & Development:Manufacturers can import up to 500 kg annually for R&D purposes, but these goods cannot be sold commercially and must be disposed of as scrap. A year-wise record of such imports must be maintained and submitted to the Central Government.

Existing Stock: Goods manufactured or imported before the order’s effective date—if certified by BIS or pending certification—may be sold for up to six months from the implementation date. Manufacturers must submit a declaration to BIS regarding this stock.