New Delhi, Oct 23 (KNN) The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has issued mandatory quality norms for copper products, drums, and tin containers to reduce the import of sub-standard goods and promote domestic manufacturing. 

DPIIT has issues two separate notifications: the Drums and Tins (Quality Control) Order, 2023, and the Copper Products (Quality Control) Order, 2023 on October 20.

Under these orders, the production, sale, trade, import, and stocking of items falling within their purview will be subject to strict regulations. These items must bear the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) mark, ensuring that they meet the mandated quality standards.

As per an official statement, enforcement of these orders will commence six months from the date of their publication.

The nine categories of copper products covered under these orders include wire rods for electrical applications, solid drawn copper and copper tubes for condensers and heat exchangers, and wrought copper tubes designed for refrigeration and air-conditioning purposes.

"In order to safeguard the domestic small/micro industries, ensure smooth implementation of the QCO and Ease of Doing Business, relaxations have been granted to small/micro industries as regards to timelines, additional three months have been given to small industries and an additional six months to micro industries," PTI quoted the department. 

Similarly, drums and tins are basically used for storing and transporting several different types of toxic, flammable and hazardous substances. They are widely used across industries including waste management, healthcare and food services.

So, it is imperative that Drums and tins need to be of good quality in order to protect any type of leakages, adulteration and fire damage, it added. 

DPIIT in consultation with BIS and stakeholders has been identifying key products for notifying QCO. This has led to the initiation of development of more than 60 new QCOs covering 318 product standards.

Violation of the provision of the BIS Act can attract imprisonment of up to two years or a fine of at least Rs 2 lakh for the first offence. 

In case of second and subsequent offences, the fine will increase to a minimum of Rs 5 lakh and extend up to 10 times of the value of goods or articles. 

Mandatory QCOs help curb the import of sub-standard products, prevent unfair trade practices, and ensure the safety and well-being of consumers, as well as the environment. 

(KNN Bureau)