QCO Deadline Extended For MSMEs Producing Cookware, Utensils and Cans for Foods To 1st July, 2025

New Delhi, Oct 16 (KNN) In a move aimed at enhancing ease of doing business and aligning with India’s self-reliance goals, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has extended the implementation timeline for the Cookware, Utensils and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2024.

The revised QCO, which was originally scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2024, will now be enforced from April 1, 2025, for large and medium-scale manufacturers. Meanwhile, small and micro-enterprises will have until July 1, 2025, and October 1, 2025, respectively, to comply with the new requirements.

The extensions and amendments follow extensive consultations between DPIIT and industry associations, ensuring that the concerns raised by businesses are addressed for a smoother transition to the upgraded quality standards.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a high-quality manufacturing ecosystem while promoting investments and encouraging entrepreneurial talent.

To ease the regulatory burden on smaller businesses, the DPIIT has introduced key relaxations in the QCO.

Micro-enterprises registered under the Udyam portal, with investments in plant and machinery not exceeding Rs 25 lakhs and an annual turnover of less than Rs 2 crore, will be exempt from compliance with the QCO.

This exemption recognises the operational limitations faced by micro-enterprises and aims to encourage their participation in the market without excessive regulatory hurdles.

In addition, the government has provided a six-month relaxation to clear legacy stock, ensuring that manufacturers have ample time to sell off existing inventory without disruptions.

To support importers and cater to diverse business needs, the QCO now permits the import of filled cans containing powders, liquids, semi-solids, or gases under a specific exemption. This measure provides greater operational flexibility for businesses relying on imported goods.

The DPIIT has also introduced provisions to support research and development efforts. Manufacturers will be allowed to import up to 200 units of cookware, utensils, or cans specifically for R&D purposes without the need to comply with QCO standards.

This exemption is expected to encourage innovation and product development within the industry.

The initial Quality Control Order, which was notified in August 2023, has now been expanded to include cans along with cookware and utensils, reflecting the government’s commitment to aligning regulations with the evolving demands of the manufacturing landscape.

By offering these phased extensions, DPIIT aims to ensure that domestic manufacturers have sufficient time to adjust their operations to meet the new standards.

These quality standards will not only enhance product performance, durability, and reliability but also foster consumer trust in Indian-made goods. As a result, India is well-positioned to emerge as a global hub for high-quality manufacturing.

With a strong industry-government partnership, homegrown brands are expected to gain a competitive edge, capturing significant market share both domestically and internationally, and contributing to the country’s long-term economic growth and self-reliance.

(KNN Bureau)