The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that products available in the Indian market adhere to established quality and safety standards. For foreign manufacturers aiming to penetrate this vast market, the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) serves as the gateway to compliance and consumer trust. As of 2025, several updates and regulatory changes have been introduced to the FMCS, reflecting India's evolving industrial landscape and commitment to quality assurance.
Understanding the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)
Established in 2000, the FMCS allows foreign manufacturers to obtain BIS certification for their products, authorizing the use of the Standard Mark on products that conform to Indian Standards. This scheme is applicable to a wide array of products, excluding electronics and IT goods notified by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), which are governed under a separate certification scheme.
Key Objectives of FMCS:
Ensure Product Quality: Guarantee that products imported into India meet the stringent quality standards set by BIS.
Protect Consumer Interests: Safeguard Indian consumers from substandard or unsafe products.
Promote Fair Trade Practices: Establish a level playing field where both domestic and foreign manufacturers adhere to the same quality benchmarks.
Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Manufacturers
To be eligible for BIS certification under FMCS, foreign manufacturers must:
Product Conformity: Ensure their products align with the applicable Indian Standards Specification (ISS).
Manufacturing Facilities: Possess all necessary manufacturing machinery and facilities at their factory premises.
Testing Arrangements: Have in-house arrangements and equipment for testing products as per applicable ISS.
Qualified Personnel: Employ competent testing personnel capable of conducting tests as per ISS.
Acceptance of BIS Terms: Agree to the Scheme of Testing & Inspection (STI), marking fee, and other terms and conditions stipulated by BIS.
It's important to note that a separate application is required for each product/Indian Standard and for each factory location.
FMCS Certification Process
The FMCS certification process is structured to ensure thorough evaluation and compliance:
Application Submission:
- Manufacturers submit a detailed application to the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Department (FMCD) at BIS Headquarters in New Delhi.
Application Scrutiny:
- BIS reviews the application for completeness and may raise queries, which are communicated via email. Once satisfactorily addressed, the application is recorded.
Factory Inspection:
BIS schedules a visit to the manufacturing facility to verify manufacturing and testing infrastructure.
Samples are withdrawn during this inspection for independent testing.
Sample Testing:
The responsibility for safe deposition of samples and remittance of testing charges lies with the applicant.
The case is processed for grant of license after receipt of satisfactory inspection and independent test reports conforming to applicable Indian Standards.
License Granting:
Upon satisfactory compliance, the manufacturer is required to pay the license fee, advance minimum marking fee, and any other outstanding dues.
An agreement and indemnity bond are signed, and a performance bank guarantee of USD 10,000 from any bank with an RBI-approved branch in India is furnished.
License Validity:
- The license is initially granted for one year and is renewable for one or two years thereafter.
Regulatory Changes and Updates in 2025
In 2025, several significant updates have been introduced to the FMCS and related BIS certifications:
Implementation of New Quality Control Orders (QCOs)
To enhance product quality and safety, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade has announced the enforcement of new QCOs for various products. Effective from February 2025, products such as block boards, prelaminated particle boards, medium-density fibre boards, and various types of plywood are required to obtain BIS certification. This move aims to ensure that these products meet the prescribed quality standards before being imported or sold in the Indian market.
Emphasis on In-House Testing Facilities
BIS has reinforced the necessity for manufacturers to possess in-house testing facilities equipped with calibrated equipment. This ensures that products are consistently tested for compliance with Indian Standards, thereby reducing reliance on external laboratories and expediting the certification process.
Nomination of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)
A critical update in the FMCS is the mandatory nomination of an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). The AIR must be an Indian resident who consents to be responsible for compliance with the provisions of the BIS Act, Rules, Regulations, and Terms & Conditions laid down in the BIS License and Agreement. This ensures accountability and smooth communication between BIS and the foreign manufacturer.
Performance Bank Guarantee
To safeguard consumer interests and ensure manufacturer accountability, BIS requires a performance bank guarantee of USD 10,000 from a bank with an RBI-approved branch in India. This guarantee acts as a financial assurance for compliance with BIS standards and regulations.
Benefits of FMCS Certification
Obtaining FMCS certification offers several advantages to foreign manufacturers:
Market Access: Certified products can be freely marketed and sold in India, tapping into a vast consumer base.
Consumer Trust: The BIS Standard Mark signifies quality and safety, enhancing brand reputation among Indian consumers.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to Indian laws and regulations, mitigating legal risks and potential penalties.
Competitive Advantage: Certified products stand
