BIS certification for chemicals in India New Standard Updates 2024-2025

If you manufacture, import or sell chemicals in India BIS certification is no longer optional. It's a mandatory approval under Indian law. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulates the quality and safety of chemicals through certification schemes. In 2025 this compliance matters more than ever especially after the government expanded the list of notified chemicals under Quality Control Orders

What is BIS Certification for Chemicals?

BIS certification for chemicals means your product follows Indian quality standards. It is an official stamp from the Bureau of Indian Standards. It confirms your product is safe, pure and fit for industrial or commercial use. BIS certification is legally binding for many chemicals listed under QCOs. Without it selling, storing, or distributing those chemicals in India is illegal

Why Chemicals Need BIS Certification

Chemicals are used in everything, from food and medicines to construction and textiles. They also carry risks fire, corrosion and environmental damage. BIS certification reduces these risks. It helps ensure chemicals are:

• Manufactured with care
• Tested for quality and purity
• Free from hazardous levels of impurities
• Stored and labeled as per regulations

In short BIS certification protects people, industries and the environment. It also gives buyers confidence in your product

Who Must Apply for BIS Certification?

If your chemical is listed under a QCO, you must get BIS certification before you manufacture, import, or sell it in India. This applies to:

• Indian manufacturers
• Foreign manufacturers (through an Indian agent)
• Contract manufacturers making chemicals for brand owners
• Traders who repack or rebrand imported chemicals

Each factory location needs a separate BIS license, even for the same product. That means if you produce from multiple plants, each must be certified.

Read More IS 1367 BIS Certification for Hexagon Head Screws and Bolts Grade A, B, and C

Common Chemicals Under BIS Scope in 2025

BIS certification is not for all chemicals only for those under mandatory control. In 2025 the list includes:

• Acetone
• Methanol
• Aniline
• Ethylene Glycol
• Phosphoric Acid
• Formaldehyde
• Nitric Acid
• Sulphuric Acid
• Hydrochloric Acid
• Sodium Hydroxide

The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers continues to add new substances under QCOs. So even if your product isn’t listed today, it could be tomorrow.

Types of BIS Certification Schemes for Chemicals

BIS certification is issued under different schemes depending on where the product is made:

1. ISI Mark Scheme (Domestic Manufacturers)

Indian factories get the ISI mark after factory audits and lab testing. This is the most recognized scheme for chemicals.

2. FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme)

For foreign producers, BIS provides this separate path. It also involves factory audit, lab tests, and an Indian agent to coordinate with BIS.

Both schemes require strict quality control, documentation and regular audits

Step-by-Step Process for BIS Certification

Here’s how the certification process usually works:

Step 1: Product Analysis and Standard Identification

First, check if your chemical is listed under a QCO. Then identify the corresponding Indian Standard (IS code).

Step 2: Prepare Technical Documents

Gather required documents like factory license, chemical composition, test methods and quality control setup

Step 3: File BIS Application

Use the Manakonline BIS portal to file your application. Pay the application and audit fees.

Step 4: Factory Audit by BIS

BIS officers inspect your facility. They check production, raw material storage, and labeling.

Step 5: Sample Testing

BIS draws chemical samples during inspection. These are tested in BIS-recognized labs as per Indian Standards.

Step 6: License Issuance

If your factory and sample pass all checks, BIS issues a license. 

Step 7: Surveillance and Renewal

You must undergo yearly surveillance audits. The license is renewed every one to five years depending on compliance.

Read More BIS Registration Process in Uttar Pradesh

Key Documents Required

Here’s a list of documents you need to submit during BIS certification:

• Business registration certificate
• Factory license or lease deed
• List of machinery and testing equipment
• In-house lab setup photos
• Raw material and formulation details
• Test reports from recognized labs
• Process flow chart
• Quality control manual
• Packaging and labeling sample
• Authorized signatory documents

Each document should be correct and updated. Wrong or missing documents can delay your certification.

How Much Does BIS Certification Cost?

BIS certification fees vary based on product type, scheme and plant location. Here’s an approximate cost breakdown:

Foreign applicants pay fees in USD and must appoint an Indian representative.

Let Agile Regulatory Simplify the BIS Process

Applying for BIS certification for chemicals can feel overwhelming too many forms, multiple tests and ever-changing rules. That’s where Agile Regulatory steps in.

We provide end-to-end support for:

• Application filing
• Document preparation
• Factory audit readiness
• Lab testing coordination
• Ongoing license renewal

Our experts work with manufacturers, importers and foreign producers. We ensure 100% compliance under BIS rules. We help you reduce delays and get your products to market faster
Partner with Agile Regulatory for stress-free BIS certification so you can focus on your chemical business not on paperwork