Based on the recommendations of the High-Level Committee on Non-Financial Regulatory Reforms (HLC-NFRR), the Ministry has examined the broader implications of enforcing the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 for the steel sector. The Ministry has taken into account potential downstream pricing impacts, the need to ensure adequate availability of steel for MSMEs and consumer industries, and the continued reliance on imports for certain specialised grades. At the same time, considerations relating to prevention of unfair trade practices, support for small steel producers, and the advancement of domestic self-reliance have also been assessed.

Taking these factors together, enforcement of QCO on 42 Indian Standards under the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 has been suspended for three years, and enforcement of QCO on 13 Indian Standards, relating to specialty steel grades covered under PLI 1.2, has been suspended for one year. The Ministry of Steel has issued the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2025.

QCO on Indian Standards Suspended for a Period of Three Years

The enforcement of 42 IS Standards in Schedule 1 of the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024—covering steel grades predominantly used in the manufacturing of engineered products, automotive and durable goods.

QCO on Indian Standards Suspended for a Period of One Year

The enforcement of 13 IS Standards in Schedule 1 of the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024—covering specialty steel grades majorly used in niche and high-precision applications, including materials requiring exceptional strength, hardness, dimensional accuracy and thermal stability.

URL: https://steel.gov.in/quality-control-orders

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