The Government of India has issued the Copper Products (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026 on 30 June 2026, introducing a significant transition relief for manufacturers in the Air Conditioning (AC) and Refrigeration sectors. This amendment provides temporary relaxation from the mandatory BIS Quality Control Order (QCO) for specific imported copper products, allowing industries additional time to align with compliance requirements.
At Kar Parivartan, we help manufacturers, importers, and foreign suppliers understand regulatory changes and ensure timely compliance with BIS requirements.
What is the Copper Products (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026?
The Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), has amended the Copper Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 through S.O. 3503(E) dated 30 June 2026.
The amendment grants a temporary exemption from the Quality Control Order for specified imported copper products used in manufacturing air conditioners and refrigeration equipment in India.
Implementation Date
- Notification Issued: 30 June 2026
- Effective Date: 30 June 2026 (date of publication)
- Transition Relief Available Until: 30 November 2026
What Has Changed?
The amendment temporarily exempts the following product from mandatory compliance under the Copper Products QCO:
Product Covered
- Inner Grooved Copper Tubes
- Applicable Standard: IS 10773:2025
- Intended exclusively for manufacturing:
- Air Conditioners
- Refrigeration Equipment
The exemption applies only to manufacturers importing these products for manufacturing purposes in India.
Quantity Allowed Under Exemption
Manufacturers can import up to:
50% of the average quantity imported during FY 2024-25 and FY 2025-26.
Imports beyond this limit must comply with the applicable BIS Quality Control requirements.
Who is Eligible?
The relaxation is applicable only to:
- Indian manufacturers of Air Conditioners
- Indian manufacturers of Refrigeration Equipment
- Manufacturers importing copper tubes as raw materials/components
Who is NOT Eligible?
The exemption does not apply to:
- General importers
- Traders
- Stockists
- Distributors
- Importers selling copper tubes independently
- Manufacturers importing quantities exceeding the permitted limit
Compliance Requirements During the Transition Period
Manufacturers availing this exemption must:
- Maintain month-wise import records.
- Record quantities imported under the exemption.
- Keep proper documentation for inspection.
- Submit records on company letterhead signed by the authorized signatory to the concerned Government authorities whenever required.
Why Has the Government Issued This Amendment?
The amendment has been introduced to:
- Support uninterrupted production of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration equipment.
- Prevent supply chain disruptions.
- Allow manufacturers sufficient time to transition to fully compliant supply sources.
- Ensure industry preparedness before strict enforcement of the Quality Control Order.
Impact on Industry
This amendment provides temporary operational flexibility while maintaining the Government’s long-term objective of ensuring quality products under the BIS framework.
Manufacturers should treat this period as an opportunity to:
- Identify BIS-compliant suppliers.
- Complete procurement planning.
- Review supply chain compliance.
- Prepare for full implementation after the transition period ends.
How Kar Parivartan Can Help
As trusted BIS certification consultants in India, Kar Parivartan offers comprehensive support for Quality Control Orders and regulatory compliance, including:
- BIS Certification Consultancy
- QCO Applicability Assessment
- Product Classification & Standard Identification
- Documentation Support
- Liaison with BIS Authorities
- Compliance Planning for Manufacturers and Importers
- Regulatory Updates & Ongoing Advisory
Our experts ensure your business remains compliant while minimizing operational disruptions.
Need Expert Assistance with BIS Compliance?
Kar Parivartan specializes in end-to-end BIS compliance services for Indian manufacturers, foreign manufacturers, importers, and brand owners. Whether you need assistance with BIS certification, Quality Control Orders (QCOs), CRS, LMPC, WPC, or EPR registrations, our experts can guide you through every step of the compliance process.
Contact Kar Parivartan
FAQs
What is the implementation date of the amendment?
The amendment came into force on 30 June 2026, the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.
Until when is the exemption available?
The temporary exemption is available until 30 November 2026.
Which product is covered?
Only Inner Grooved Copper Tubes conforming to IS 10773:2025 intended for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration equipment are covered.
Can traders or distributors claim this exemption?
No. The exemption is only for manufacturers importing these products for use in manufacturing.
Is there any import quantity restriction?
Yes. Imports under the exemption cannot exceed 50% of the average quantity imported during FY 2024–25 and FY 2025–26.
Are manufacturers required to maintain records?
Yes. Month-wise import records must be maintained and furnished to the Government authorities as required.
What happens after 30 November 2026?
After the transition period, the exemption ceases, and the applicable BIS Quality Control requirements under the Copper Products QCO will apply unless further notified by the Government.
