Introduction
In April 2025, India’s Ministry of Mines notified a new regulatory requirement that will directly impact global producers and exporters of refined zinc. Under the Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025, no refined zinc ingot may be sold or distributed in India unless it complies with the BIS certification for refined zinc. This mandate enforces conformity with IS 209:2024, the Indian standard that specifies the purity, chemical composition, and testing methods for refined zinc.
For global manufacturers, trading companies, and compliance professionals, understanding this certification framework is crucial to maintaining access to India’s large and rapidly growing industrial market.
What Is BIS Certification for Refined Zinc?
BIS certification for refined zinc is a mandatory conformity assessment under India’s Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016. It requires all refined zinc sold in the Indian market to comply with IS 209:2024 and to bear the Standard Mark (ISI mark) issued by BIS under Scheme I of the Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.
Key Highlights:
- This applies to both domestic and imported refined zinc ingots
- Effective from October 17, 2025 (six months from the notification date)
- Certification must be obtained before commercial distribution or customs clearance
- BIS is the sole certifying and enforcement authority
This certification does not apply to refined zinc meant exclusively for export from India.
Indian Standard IS 209:2024 — The Technical Benchmark
The Indian standard for refined zinc, officially designated as IS 209:2024, is a comprehensive specification covering:
- Grades of purity based on zinc content and permissible impurities
- Sampling and chemical analysis methods
- Marking and labeling requirements for standardized trade
Any applicant seeking BIS certification must demonstrate strict conformity to this standard, backed by test reports from BIS-recognized laboratories.
Who Needs to Comply?
The regulation is binding on the following business categories:
| Category | Compliance Requirement |
|---|---|
| Foreign manufacturers | BIS license under FMCS (Scheme-I) |
| Indian manufacturers | BIS license under Domestic Scheme-I |
| Importers & Traders | May only import BIS-certified zinc with the ISI mark |
Foreign entities, in particular, must factor in additional lead time for factory inspections, documentation reviews, and product testing in BIS-accredited laboratories.
Step-by-Step BIS Certification Process for Foreign Manufacturers
Here’s how international manufacturers of refined zinc ingots can navigate India’s mandatory certification regime:
1. Application Submission
Submit application via the BIS portal under the FMCS (Scheme I), including:
- Product details
- Test reports
- Factory quality documents
2. Factory Audit
A BIS officer will visit the production facility to verify manufacturing controls, quality assurance systems, and conformity to IS 209.
3. Sample Testing
Product samples will be drawn during the audit and tested in India at a BIS-recognized lab to confirm compliance.
4. License Grant
If all requirements are met, BIS grants a license with a unique license number. You can now mark your product with the ISI standard mark.
5. Post-Certification Surveillance
BIS may conduct periodic surveillance audits to ensure continued conformity.
Key Compliance Deadlines
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Gazette Notification | April 17, 2025 |
| QCO Effective Date | October 17, 2025 |
| Deadline to complete BIS licensing process | Before October 17, 2025 |
Risks of Non-Compliance
Manufacturers or importers attempting to supply refined zinc ingots without BIS certification after the deadline will face:
- Detention of goods at Indian ports
- Rejection of customs clearance
- Penal action under the BIS Act, 2016
- Potential blacklisting from future tenders or contracts
How NKG Advisory Can Help
At NKG Advisory, we work closely with global metal producers and compliance teams to navigate India’s complex regulatory framework. From technical document preparation to audit readiness and BIS license facilitation, our team ensures end-to-end support, helping you enter the Indian market smoothly and legally.
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Final Thoughts
India’s enforcement of BIS certification for refined zinc reflects its broader commitment to quality assurance across industrial sectors. For foreign manufacturers, early alignment with IS 209 and proactive engagement with BIS can ensure uninterrupted market access and regulatory peace of mind.
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