Important Update : Clarification on Import of Inner Grooved Copper Tubes

On November 13, 2024, a key meeting was held at the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi. The meeting focused on the Quality Control Orders (QCO) related to copper products. A significant issue raised during the discussion was the applicability of IS 10773:1995, particularly regarding the Inner Grooved Copper Tube, a product used in the light engineering industry.

The Issue at Hand

Industry associations brought to the table the concern that the existing Indian Standard IS 10773:1995, which governs copper products, might not be relevant for Inner Grooved Copper Tubes. The question was whether this specific product fell under the regulations set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for copper tubes.

The Official Clarification

Following consultations with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the Department of Commerce has now issued a clarification on this matter. According to the latest communication from Vanijya Bhawan, it has been confirmed that Inner Grooved Copper Tubes are not covered under IS 10773:1995. This important decision provides clarity to both manufacturers and importers of this product, helping streamline business operations and compliance with regulatory standards. This clarification is particularly relevant for stakeholders in the light engineering industry who deal with the importation and usage of Inner Grooved Copper Tubes. The BIS clarification clears any confusion around the applicability of the quality control order to this specific category of copper tubes

Important Details

• Date of Communication: November 24, 2024.

• Validity Period of Clarification: This clarification is valid for a period of three months from the date of issue. It will offer time for industry stakeholders to adjust their operations accordingly.

• Approval: The clarification has been issued with the approval of the competent authority, further solidifying its authenticity and relevance.

What Does This Mean for the Industry?

The clarification is significant as it means that importers of Inner Grooved Copper Tubes will not be required to comply with IS 10773:1995, which governs the quality standards for copper tubes in general. This change could potentially simplify the import process for businesses dealing with these specific copper tubes, as they will no longer be under the scrutiny of IS 10773:1995 standards. However, the three-month validity of this clarification means that businesses should stay updated on any potential developments from BIS or the DPIIT regarding the status of this product after the clarification expires.

Looking Forward

The clarification on the import of Inner Grooved Copper Tubes highlights the government’s commitment to supporting the industry by addressing concerns that arise around product standards. The collaborative approach between DPIIT, BIS, and industry associations ensures that the needs of the industry are considered while maintaining the integrity of regulatory frameworks. As businesses now navigate the import process with this new clarification in mind, it is advised to stay in touch with the relevant government authorities and industry bodies to ensure compliance and stay updated on any future changes to quality control orders for copper products.