The QCO debate: Do Indians deserve substandard products?

@ DR JAUJIT BHATTACHARYA

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THE GOVERNMENT OF India’s recent decision to rescind Quality Control Orders (QCOs) across select textiles, chemicals and minerals has intensified the ongoing debate on the purpose and design of QCOs. As a policy tool, QCOs aim to ensure that Indian consumers have access to products of assured quality and to prevent the inflow of substandard imports, particularly from China and its Asean subsidiaries. They are central to the Centre’s broader “Zero Effect, Zero Defect” vision for a modern manufacturing ecosystem.

Yet, QCOs have drawn criticism from importers and foreign suppliers. They argue that they are being prematurely implemented, restrict imports, raise costs and harm export competitiveness. These claims warrant a rational, evidence-based assessment rather than acceptance at face value. QCOs are not arbitrary. They undergo multistage evaluation by line ministries. These assessments examine downstream impact, domestic capacity, and the availability of BIS-certified units, both domestic and foreign.

QCOs are issued only when adequate BIS-certified supply is confirmed. Theirenforcement is often phased or deferred until adequate supply from domestic and foreign suppliers is available. Both Indian and foreign players are eligible for BIS certification.