Quality control norms for cookware and utensils set to kick in from October in a phased manner

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All large and medium-scale manufacturers in the food and beverages sector have been directed by the Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to comply with Quality Control Order (QCO) for cookware, utensils and cans from October 1, after nearly a year of relaxation in norms.

The government has, however, staggered the QCO implementation date. Small enterprises will have to comply from January, 2026 and micro enterprises from April, 2026, according to a fresh notification published on August 23. All items meant for export have been exempted from the order.

The department also introduced relaxations to support smaller players, particularly small micro-enterprises under the government’s Udyam portal for registration of MSMEs, wherein the investment in plant and machinery or equipment at original cost does not exceed Rs 25 lakh and the turnover does not exceed Rs 2 crore for the previous financial year.

A QCO is a regulatory framework of the government to ensure specific products meet established quality and safety standards. It mandates compliance with Indian standards for manufacturing, production, and imports, aiming to protect consumers and promote high-quality domestic goods in line with international norms.

Initially slated to take effect from September 1, 2024, the implementation date was later pushed to April 1, 2025 for large and medium-scale manufacturers, with additional time given to smaller enterprises. With the latest notification, the revised timeline for kicking off QCO for cookware, utensils and cans will be October 1, 2025, January 2026 and April 2026 depending on the size of the enterprise.

Another important provision is an exemption for research and development (R&D). “Manufacturers involved in R&D will be allowed to import or produce up to 200 units of cookware, utensils, and cans without adhering to the QCO regulations,” the notification said.

The measure comes at a time when India is focusing on improving its domestically produced products amid steep tariffs imposed by the United States. The QCO norms are aimed at innovation in product development to help position India as a leader in high-quality manufacturing.

Additionally, DPIIT has introduced specific exemptions for the import of cans containing powders, semi-solids, liquids, or gases, further easing the regulatory burden for companies relying on imports.

DPIIT's QCOs apply to a wide range of products, including smart meters, footwear, toys, cooking utensils, fire extinguishers, safety glass, welding rods, and components for building, all to ensure safety and improve manufacturing quality.