The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) is a regulatory framework under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) that ensures imported products comply with Indian quality and safety standards. However, FMCS certification is not universally mandatory for all chemical products.
Whether FMCS certification is required depends on the specific chemical product and whether it falls under a Quality Control Order (QCO).
1. Applicability of FMCS to Chemical Products
FMCS certification is mandatory only when chemical products are notified under BIS Quality Control Orders.
Examples include:
-
Industrial chemicals
-
Specialty chemicals
-
Chemicals used in construction, electronics, or consumer goods
If a chemical product is covered under a QCO, FMCS certification becomes legally mandatory for foreign manufacturers.
2. FMCS for Imported Chemical Products
For imported chemical products, FMCS is required when:
-
The product is notified under BIS standards
-
The product is intended for sale or industrial use in India
Customs authorities may stop shipments if FMCS certification is not provided for applicable products.
3. Domestic vs Foreign Manufacturers
-
Indian manufacturers must obtain BIS certification under domestic schemes
-
Foreign manufacturers must apply under the FMCS route
The certification ensures both domestic and imported chemicals meet the same quality benchmarks.
4. Ensuring Product Safety and Quality
FMCS certification ensures:
-
Chemical composition meets Indian Standards
-
Products are safe for handling, storage, and usage
-
Risks to health, environment, and infrastructure are minimized
This is especially important for hazardous or industrial chemicals.
5. Factory Inspection and Testing
FMCS certification requires:
-
Testing of chemical samples in BIS-recognized laboratories
-
Inspection of foreign manufacturing facilities by BIS officials
This ensures consistency and compliance at the production level.
6. Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance
If FMCS certification is mandatory and not obtained:
-
Imports may be rejected or seized
-
Heavy penalties may be imposed
-
Business licenses may be suspended
Non-compliance can also damage business credibility in India.
7. Importance of Checking QCO Notifications
Not all chemical products require FMCS certification. Businesses must:
-
Regularly check updated QCO notifications
-
Identify applicable Indian Standards
-
Obtain certification before import or manufacture
This proactive approach avoids regulatory surprises.
Conclusion
FMCS certification is mandatory for chemical products only when they are covered under BIS Quality Control Orders. For such products, compliance is essential to ensure safety, quality, and legal market access in India. As India continues strengthening chemical safety regulations in 2026, verifying FMCS applicability before import or manufacture is critical for seamless business operations.