The Ministry of Mines in India is soliciting public comments on a draft Quality Control Order (QCO) for four metals, including refined zinc, refined nickel, primary lead, and tin ingot. This draft has been notified to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in accordance with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulations. The deadline for submitting public comments is set for November 11, 2024.
Manufacturers of these metals are required to comply with the following new Indian standards:
| Chemicals | Indian Standards |
| Refined Zinc | IS 209:2024 |
| Refined Nickel | IS 2782:2023 |
| Primary Lead | IS 27: 2023 |
| Tin Ingot | IS 26:2024 |
Once these QCOs are implemented, relevant manufacturers must apply for licenses from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The products must bear the standard mark under the license. The orders do not apply to chemicals intended for export only. All relevant manufacturers must comply with these new orders. Those who fails to comply with the orders shall be penalized in accordance with the provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act (BIS Act), 2016.
