Ministry of Steel Grants Exemption for Cross Recessed Screws Consignments Under Quality Control Order

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Dated: 20.01.2026

Ministry of Steel Grants Exemption for Cross Recessed Screws Consignments Under Quality Control Order

The Ministry of Steel, Government of India, has issued an important order regarding the implementation of the Cross Recessed Screws (Quality Control) Order, 2025. This directive, originally issued by the Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, aims to ensure the quality compliance of Cross Recessed Screws in India. However, recent developments have brought some relief to stakeholders in the industry.

Background of the Quality Control Order (QCO)

The Cross Recessed Screws (Quality Control) Order, 2025, was issued on August 27, 2025, by DPIIT. The order mandates strict quality control measures for Cross Recessed Screws to ensure that only high-quality products are manufactured, imported, and sold in the Indian market. The implementation date for this order was set as November 1, 2025. However, recognizing the challenges faced by Small and Micro Enterprises (SMEs), the government provided extended deadlines for compliance. For Small Enterprises, the implementation date was set as February 1, 2026, while for Micro Enterprises, it was extended further to May 1, 2026.

Transfer of Responsibilities to the Ministry of Steel 

In a subsequent development, DPIIT transferred the responsibility for overseeing Iron and Steel products under Chapter 72 (4 HSN Codes) and Chapter 73 (250 HSN Codes) to the Ministry of Steel. This transfer was formalized through an Office Memorandum dated November 4, 2025. The Ministry of Steel has since been actively addressing concerns and representations from stakeholders regarding the implementation of the QCO.

Exemption for Consignments Already at Ports 

Following the implementation of the QCO, the Ministry of Steel received several representations from industry stakeholders requesting a one-time exemption for consignments that had already arrived at Indian ports. These consignments were imported before the stakeholders could fully comply with the new quality control requirements.

Taking these concerns into account, the Ministry of Steel has announced a significant exemption. As per the order dated January 2026, consignments of Cross Recessed Screws with inward entry dates between November 1, 2025, and January 12, 2026, are exempted from the quality control requirements outlined in the QCO. This decision provides much-needed relief to importers and businesses that were facing challenges due to the sudden implementation of the order.

Implications of the Exemption

The exemption is expected to ease the burden on businesses that had already imported consignments before the QCO compliance could be fully implemented. It also reflects the government’s commitment to addressing industry concerns while ensuring a smooth transition to stricter quality standards. However, businesses must note that this exemption is limited to consignments with inward entry dates within the specified period. Any consignments arriving after January 12, 2026, will need to comply with the QCO requirements.

Conclusion

The Ministry of Steel’s decision to grant a one-time exemption for Cross Recessed Screws consignments is a welcome move for the industry. It demonstrates the government’s willingness to balance quality control measures with the practical challenges faced by businesses. As the implementation of the QCO progresses, stakeholders are encouraged to ensure compliance with the new standards to contribute to the overall goal of enhancing product quality in the Indian market.

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Source: Ministry of Steel

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