Steel Ministry Reviews BIS Certification Norms for Fastener Industry Amid MSME Concerns

The Ministry of Steel has initiated discussions with industry stakeholders on easing mandatory Bureau of Indian Standards certification requirements for the fastener industry, a move that could provide major relief to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises across the country.

The development comes after manufacturers raised concerns over increasing compliance costs, supply chain disruptions and operational difficulties linked to existing Quality Control Orders. Industry players manufacturing bolts, nuts, screws, rivets, washers and other fastening products have argued that the present regulatory framework is creating pressure on businesses without delivering proportional quality improvements.

According to industry representatives, the current one product one licence system is proving difficult for fastener manufacturers, as a single production line often manufactures multiple variants based on grade, size, coating and industrial application. This has increased certification complexities and compliance expenses, particularly for smaller companies operating with limited financial resources.

The ministry is now examining several proposals, including relaxation of BIS norms for specialised imported steel grades used in fastener manufacturing where domestic supply remains inadequate. Reports indicate that more than 200 foreign steel licences could be considered for exemption to avoid disruptions in production.

Additional relief measures for MSMEs are also under consideration. These include extending timelines for securing BIS certification and possible exemptions for smaller manufacturing units. Earlier, the government had already postponed implementation of BIS norms for select steel products by up to three years to support industries struggling with compliance requirements.

Industry associations, including the Federation of Indian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, have welcomed the ministry’s move and called for a practical regulatory framework that balances product quality with ease of doing business.

The fastener industry plays a critical role in sectors such as automobiles, infrastructure, electronics, construction and engineering. Despite accounting for a relatively small share of manufacturing costs, fasteners remain essential components in industrial production and project execution.

The government is expected to review stakeholder feedback before taking a final decision on possible amendments to BIS regulations for the sector.