Quality control orders implemented with relaxations for MSMEs

Published on December 14, 2025
Current Context: On 14 December 2025, the Government of India announced phased relaxations in Quality Control Orders (QCOs) for MSMEs to safeguard domestic production and ease compliance.
  • Micro enterprises were given a 6‑month extension, while small enterprises received a 3‑month extension beyond the standard effective date.
  • The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) reduced certification costs, offering 80% concession for micro, 50% for small, and 20% for medium enterprises, with an extra 10% concession for women-owned and North-East units.
  • MSMEs can now use cluster-based or NABL-accredited labs instead of mandatory in-house labs, and flexible inspection norms under SIT were introduced.
  • Clearance of legacy stock is permitted for six months after QCO enforcement.
  • Exemptions were also granted for export-oriented units and R&D imports up to 200 units.
  • Additionally, a high-level committee recommended suspension or deferment of QCOs for over 200 products like steel grades and plastics to reduce compliance burden.

Question:

Q1.Under the revised QCO relaxations, which MSME category received the longest compliance extension?
a) Medium enterprises
b) Small enterprises
c) Micro enterprises
d) Export-oriented units

Answer: c) Micro enterprises were granted a 6-month extension, longer than small enterprises.

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