Steel industry faces disruption as QCO Compliance deadline looms
01 Jul 2025 Editorial Team
The Ministry of Steel’s sudden
extension of its Quality
Control Order to steel inputs,
including imports, has
triggered concern across the
steel sector. Notified on 13
June, the rule became
effective for imports with bill
of lading from 16 June, giving
businesses less than a day to
comply. Industry experts warn
of major disruptions, cost
escalation, and
documentation challenges for
MSMEs. The order mandates
that both raw materials and
semi-finished imports adhere
to BIS standards, affecting
global supply chains. The lack
of notice is expected to hinder
production and delay
deliveries, especially for firms
reliant on imported inputs.