Amendments to Quality Control Orders: A Step Towards Supporting MSMEs

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Dated: 16.02.2026

Amendments to Quality Control Orders: A Step Towards Supporting MSMEs

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), has issued a significant order on February 12, 2026, aimed at amending various Quality Control Orders under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. This move is a testament to the government’s commitment to promoting and supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India. Let’s delve into the details of this order and understand its implications.

Overview of the Order

The order, published in the Official Gazette, introduces amendments to eight Quality Control Orders across various industries. These amendments primarily focus on exempting certain MSMEs from the applicability of these Quality Control Orders, provided they meet specific criteria. This exemption is expected to ease compliance burdens for small enterprises, enabling them to focus on growth and innovation.

Key Amendments

The amendments apply to the following Quality Control Orders:

Flame-Producing Lighters (Quality Control) Order, 2023 Amendment: Exemption for MSMEs registered under the Udyam Portal, with investment in plant and machinery or equipment not exceeding ₹1 crore and turnover not exceeding ₹5 crore for the previous financial year.
Potable Water Bottles (Quality Control) Order, 2024 Amendment: Similar exemption for MSMEs meeting the investment and turnover criteria.
Welding Rods and Electrodes (Quality Control) Order, 2023 Amendment: Exemption for eligible MSMEs as per the defined criteria.
Insulated Flask, Bottles, and Containers for Domestic Use (Quality Control) Order, 2024 Amendment: MSMEs meeting the investment and turnover limits are exempted.
Electric Ceiling Type Fans (Quality Control) Order, 2023 Amendment: Exemption for MSMEs registered under the Udyam Portal with specified investment and turnover limits.
Laboratory Glassware (Quality Control) Order, 2023 Amendment: A new proviso added to exempt eligible MSMEs.
Air Cooler and Air Filters (Quality Control) Order, 2025 Amendment: Exemption for MSMEs meeting the investment and turnover criteria.
Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025 Amendment: Exemption for MSMEs registered under the Udyam Portal with specified investment and turnover limits.

Eligibility Criteria for Exemption 

The amendments specify that the exemptions apply to goods or articles manufactured by enterprises registered under the Udyam Portal of the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. To qualify for the exemption:

The investment in plant and machinery or equipment at original cost must not exceed ₹1 crore.
The turnover for the previous financial year must not exceed ₹5 crore, as certified by a Chartered Accountant.

Implications of the Amendments

Ease of Compliance for MSMEs By exempting small enterprises from stringent quality control requirements, the government aims to reduce the compliance burden on MSMEs. This will allow them to focus on scaling their operations and improving productivity.
Encouragement for Small Businesses The amendments provide a significant boost to small businesses, encouraging them to register under the Udyam Portal and avail themselves of the benefits.
Support for Economic Growth MSMEs are the backbone of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to employment and GDP. These amendments are expected to foster growth in the MSME sector, thereby driving economic development.
Focus on Public Interest While ensuring quality standards for larger enterprises, the government has balanced the need for public interest with the growth of small businesses by providing exemptions to eligible MSMEs.

Conclusion

The amendments to the Quality Control Orders reflect the government’s proactive approach to supporting MSMEs, which are vital for India’s economic progress. By reducing regulatory hurdles, the government is empowering small enterprises to thrive in a competitive market. These changes are expected to create a more conducive environment for MSMEs, fostering innovation, growth, and employment opportunities.

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Source: DPIIT

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