Yes, importers in India are required to ensure that their products comply with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification requirements. While BIS certification is typically issued to manufacturers, importers play a crucial role in facilitating this process, especially when dealing with foreign manufacturers.
Understanding BIS Certification
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India, responsible for formulating and enforcing quality standards for products to ensure safety, reliability, and quality. BIS certification is mandatory for certain products, especially those that impact public health and safety.
Role of Importers in BIS Certification
Importers must ensure that the products they bring into India comply with BIS standards. This involves coordinating with manufacturers to obtain the necessary certifications. In cases where the manufacturer is foreign, importers may act as the Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to facilitate the certification process.
Types of BIS Certification Relevant to Importers
1. Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS)
Applicable primarily to electronics and IT products, CRS requires manufacturers to register their products with BIS after testing them in BIS-recognized laboratories. Importers dealing with such products must ensure that the foreign manufacturers have obtained CRS certification.
2. Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS)
FMCS is designed for foreign manufacturers of products that require the ISI mark. Under this scheme, foreign manufacturers must obtain BIS certification to export their products to India. Importers can assist in this process by acting as the AIR.
Consequences of Importing Without BIS Certification
Importing products without the necessary BIS certification can lead to several issues:
Customs Clearance Delays or Denials: Non-certified products may be held or denied entry at customs.
Legal Penalties: Importers may face fines or legal action for non-compliance.
Market Access Issues: Without certification, products cannot be legally sold in the Indian market.
Reputational Damage: Selling non-compliant products can harm the importer's reputation.
Steps for Importers to Ensure BIS Compliance
Identify Applicable Standards: Determine if the product falls under mandatory BIS certification.
Coordinate with Manufacturers: Ensure that the manufacturer has obtained the necessary BIS certification.
Act as AIR: If the manufacturer is foreign, consider acting as their Authorized Indian Representative to facilitate certification.
Maintain Documentation: Keep all certification documents readily available for customs and regulatory checks.
Stay Updated: Regularly check for updates to BIS standards and certification requirements.
Conclusion
While importers themselves do not receive BIS certification, they are responsible for ensuring that the products they import comply with BIS standards. By proactively coordinating with manufacturers and understanding the certification process, importers can ensure smooth customs clearance and legal compliance in the Indian market.
