What Changed Under the Cross Recessed Screws QCO Amendment 2026?
The Cross Recessed Screws QCO Amendment 2026 introduces a limited amendment to the existing Cross Recessed Screws (Quality Control) Order, 2025. Issued by the Ministry of Steel, the notification defers the enforcement of three Indian Standards while leaving the broader regulatory framework unchanged.
The amendment does not replace the existing Quality Control Order (QCO). Instead, it temporarily suspends the enforcement of three specific Indian Standards for a period of three years from the date of publication of the amendment.
For manufacturers, importers, and compliance teams, the amendment provides additional time for the affected standards while the remaining provisions of the Quality Control Order continue to apply.
Which BIS Standards Are Affected?
Under the Cross Recessed Screws QCO Amendment 2026, enforcement has been deferred for the following standards:
| Indian Standard | Product |
|---|---|
| IS 18507:2024 | Drywall Screws |
| IS 18508:2024 | Chipboard Screws |
| IS 18509:2023 | Cross-Recessed Countersunk Head Wood Screws |
The amendment specifies that these entries will remain inoperative for three years from the publication of the notification. No other standards covered under the Cross Recessed Screws Quality Control Order have been modified through this amendment.
What Does the Amendment Mean?
The amendment is often misunderstood as a withdrawal of BIS requirements. That is not the case.
The Cross Recessed Screws QCO Amendment 2026 only postpones the enforcement of the three standards listed above. It does not revoke the Quality Control Order or remove BIS certification requirements for other products covered under the QCO.
Businesses manufacturing or importing products falling outside these three standards should continue to assess their compliance obligations under the applicable Indian Standards.
Similarly, manufacturers dealing with Drywall Screws BIS Certification, Chipboard Screws BIS Certification, or Wood Screws BIS Rules India should review the notification carefully before making compliance decisions, as the amendment relates specifically to enforcement timelines rather than the regulatory framework itself.
Why Was This Amendment Issued?
The notification itself does not state the reasons behind the deferment.
It simply provides that the enforcement of Serial Numbers 12, 13, and 14 of the Cross Recessed Screws (Quality Control) Order, 2025 shall remain inoperative for three years.
Since no further explanation has been provided, businesses should avoid making assumptions regarding future regulatory changes and instead rely on official notifications issued by the Government of India and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
What Should Manufacturers and Importers Do?
Although the amendment provides temporary relief for the affected standards, businesses should continue monitoring regulatory developments closely.
Manufacturers should verify whether their products fall under the deferred standards or under other Indian Standards that remain enforceable.
Importers should ensure product classification and applicable Indian Standards are correctly identified before planning imports or certification activities.
Compliance teams should also review their internal product mapping, supplier documentation, and certification roadmaps to reflect the updated enforcement timelines introduced through the amendment.
Taking these steps early helps avoid confusion and supports smoother compliance planning as future notifications are issued.
Does This Change the BIS Certification Process?
No.
The notification does not introduce any changes to the BIS certification procedure.
The existing conformity assessment framework under the Bureau of Indian Standards continues to apply wherever the relevant Quality Control Order remains enforceable.
The amendment only affects the enforcement status of three identified standards and should not be interpreted as a broader change to the BIS certification process.
Key Takeaways
The Cross Recessed Screws QCO Amendment 2026 introduces a targeted regulatory change rather than a complete policy revision.
The amendment:
- Defers enforcement of IS 18507:2024, IS 18508:2024, and IS 18509:2023 for three years.
- Does not repeal the Cross Recessed Screws (Quality Control) Order, 2025.
- Does not modify the BIS certification framework.
- Does not affect the remaining standards covered under the QCO.
Manufacturers and importers should continue assessing product-specific applicability instead of assuming a blanket exemption across all cross recessed screw products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Cross Recessed Screws QCO Amendment 2026 remove BIS certification?
No. The amendment only defers the enforcement of three specified Indian Standards. It does not remove BIS certification requirements for all products covered under the Quality Control Order.
Which products are covered by the amendment?
The amendment affects:
- Drywall Screws (IS 18507:2024)
- Chipboard Screws (IS 18508:2024)
- Cross-Recessed Countersunk Head Wood Screws (IS 18509:2023)
How long has the enforcement been deferred?
The notification provides a deferment period of three years from the date of publication in the Official Gazette.
Does this amendment affect all cross-recessed screws?
No. The amendment applies only to the standards listed in the notification. Other applicable standards under the Quality Control Order remain unchanged.
Official Notification
Cross Recessed Screws (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026
Official Gazette Notification: https://www.bis.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Cross-Recessed-Screws-Quality-Control-Amendment-Order-2026.pdf
Bureau of Indian Standards: https://www.bis.gov.in/
Need Help Understanding QCO Applicability?
Whether you are manufacturing in India or importing regulated products, understanding the correct applicability of a Quality Control Order is essential before planning certification or market entry.
Our regulatory experts can help you assess product applicability, identify relevant Indian Standards, and navigate the BIS certification process with confidence.
