Steel and Iron Products
Ferrochromium
Strategic Recommendations for Ferrochromium – IS 1170:1992
- Start BIS Certification Immediately
Apply for BIS certification under IS 1170:1992 without delay, as enforcement is effective from 30th August 2024. - Engage ERA Compliance Experts
ERA’s team will assist with applications, testing, ISI marking, and audit readiness for hassle-free certification. - Reach Out for Support
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp – Support for filing, inspection readiness, and compliance clarifications. - Track QCO Updates & Subscribe ERA Newsletter
Subscribe to ERA Newsletter for real-time updates on Government Gazette, QCO amendments, and compliance deadlines. - Ensure ISI Marking & Test Certification
Every consignment must bear the ISI mark and be accompanied by a BIS Test Certificate before sale or import.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Ferrochromium |
| Applicable Indian Standard (IS) No. | IS 1170:1992 |
| Title of Indian Standard | Ferrochromium – Specification |
| ITC (HS) Code | 72024100, 72024900, 72025000, 72029990 |
| Quality Control Order | Covered under the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 |
| Notification & Amendments | S.O. 3716(E), dated 29th August 2024 (superseding S.O. 574(E), dated 5th February 2024) |
| Final Enforcement Date | From 30th August 2024 |
| Objective & Scope | To ensure quality, safety, and performance of ferroalloys used in steelmaking by mandating adherence to BIS standards. |
| Products Covered | Ferrochromium used as an alloying element in the manufacture of stainless steel and special steels. |
| Exemptions | Products manufactured domestically only for export and conforming to buyer-specified foreign standards are exempt. |
| Industries Impacted | - Stainless Steel Manufacturing - Special Steel Producers - Foundries & Alloy Makers - Ferroalloy Producers & Traders |
| Mandatory Compliance | - Products must bear the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) under a BIS license. - Each consignment must be accompanied by a BIS Test Certificate. |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | - Apply for BIS certification under Scheme-I. - Align manufacturing with IS 1170:1992. - Maintain quality control documentation. - Ensure proper marking before sale in India. |
| Legal Framework Provision & Enforcement | Governed under Sections 16, 17, and 25(3) of the BIS Act, 2016. BIS is the certifying and enforcement authority. |
| Penalties | Imprisonment up to 2 years or fine of not less than ₹2 lakh (extendable up to 10× the value of goods) or both. Continuing offences may attract an additional ₹5,000 per day fine. |
| Supersession & Amendment Clause | Supersedes the earlier Steel and Steel Products (QCO) 2024 issued via S.O. 574(E). Any future BIS amendments to IS 1170:1992 will automatically apply. |
| Conclusion | Compliance with BIS certification is mandatory for all domestic manufacturers and importers of ferrochromium to ensure quality and reliability in steelmaking applications. |
| References/Annexures | Gazette Notification S.O. 3716(E), dated 29th August 2024; Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024; BIS Act, 2016 |
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Notification
The product Ferrochromium (IS 1170:1992), classified under ITC (HS) code 72024100, 72024900, 72025000 and, 72029990, has been brought under mandatory quality control through the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024, notified via S.O. 3716(E), dated 29th August 2024, by the Ministry of Steel. This order supersedes the earlier QCO notified as S.O. 574(E), dated 5th February 2024.
Enforcement Timeline
- Notification Date: 29th August 2024
- Effective Date: 30th August 2024
- Enforcement: With immediate effect
Overview
The regulation mandates adherence to IS 1170:1992 for ferrochromium to ensure consistency, quality, and performance in the production of stainless and special steels.
Objective & Scope
The order seeks to eliminate substandard ferroalloys from the domestic market and ensure BIS-certified ferrochromium is used in steelmaking.
Products Covered
Ferrochromium for alloying in stainless and special steels.
Exemptions Provided
Products manufactured solely for export, conforming to foreign buyer specifications, are exempt.
Industries Impacted
- Stainless steel producers
- Special steel and alloy manufacturers
- Foundries and metallurgical industries
- Ferroalloy producers and traders
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
- Every consignment must carry the Standard Mark (ISI Mark) under a valid BIS license.
- Compliance with IS 1170:1992 is compulsory.
- Each consignment must include a BIS Test Certificate.
Next Steps for Stakeholders
- Apply for BIS certification under Scheme-I immediately.
- Align production and quality systems with IS 1170:1992.
- Maintain rigorous in-house testing and quality control.
- Ensure marking and certification before distribution or sale in India.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
This order is issued under Sections 16, 17, and 25(3) of the BIS Act, 2016. BIS is the certifying and enforcement authority.
Violation of the Order attracts penalties under Section 29 of the BIS Act, 2016, which include:
- Imprisonment up to 2 years, or
- Fine of not less than ₹2 lakh (extendable up to 10 times the value of goods), or both.
- For continuing offences, an additional fine of up to ₹5,000 per day may be imposed.
Conclusion
Compliance with IS 1170:1992 and ITC HS code 72024900 is mandatory with immediate effect. Stakeholders must obtain BIS certification, follow marking requirements, and align manufacturing practices to avoid penalties and safeguard market access.
Ready to start your certification journey?
Let us help you navigate regulatory challenges and achieve certification with ease. Leave us your details, and we’ll get back to you—or request a free consultation today.