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Furniture (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026: What It Means for Manufacturers and Importers

On 12 February 2026, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (DPIIT) notified the Furniture (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026, introducing important relaxations to the Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025. The amendment addresses long-standing industry concerns around R&D imports, legacy stock, and export-oriented manufacturing.

This update is a welcome move that balances regulatory compliance with operational practicality for furniture manufacturers.

Background: Furniture QCO Framework

The Furniture (Quality Control) Order, 2025 mandates compliance with relevant Indian Standards and BIS certification for notified furniture products sold in India. While the objective is to improve product quality and consumer safety, the industry had highlighted practical challenges—especially for innovation, exports, and stock already in circulation.

The 2026 amendment responds directly to these concerns.

Key Changes Introduced by the Amendment Order, 2026

1. R&D Imports Allowed up to 200 Units per Financial Year

Certified manufacturers, as well as those who have applied for BIS certification, are now permitted to import up to 200 units per financial year of notified furniture items exclusively for research and development purposes.

Conditions:

  • These goods cannot be sold commercially
  • They must be disposed of as scrap
  • Manufacturers must maintain year-wise records
  • Records must be furnished to the Central Government when required

Industry Impact: This is a major relief for manufacturers investing in product development, testing new materials, designs, or technologies without facing compliance roadblocks at the R&D stage.

2. One-Time Relief for Pre-Existing Domestic and Imported Stock

The amendment provides clarity on legacy stock manufactured or imported before the implementation date of the QCO.

Certified manufacturers (or those who have applied for certification) are allowed to:

  • Sell, display, or offer for sale such declared stock
  • For a period of up to 12 months from the date of implementation

Condition: A self-declaration must be submitted to BIS confirming details of the stock

Industry Impact: This prevents unnecessary write-offs and inventory losses, especially for businesses that had already invested in production or imports prior to enforcement.

3. Exemption for Export-Only Furniture and Components

Furniture manufacturers in India importing non-BIS marked goods, components, or sub-assemblies exclusively for export production are exempt from the QCO requirements.

Conditions:

  • A self-declaration on company letterhead must be submitted to the Central Government

  • Declaration must include invoice numbers and import details

  • An undertaking that goods will:

    • Not be diverted for domestic sale
    • Not be used for any other purpose

  • Proper records must be maintained for verification or audit

Industry Impact: This ensures Indian exporters remain globally competitive and are not burdened with domestic compliance requirements for export-only supply chains.

Omega QMS View: A Balanced and Industry-Friendly Amendment

The Furniture (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026 reflects a more mature and consultative regulatory approach. By addressing R&D flexibility, legacy inventory, and export realities, the government has reduced compliance friction without diluting quality objectives.

However, manufacturers must note that these relaxations are conditional, documentation-driven, and subject to audit. Misinterpretation or weak record-keeping could still attract enforcement action.

How Omega QMS Can Help

With over 25 years of experience in BIS certification and QCO compliance, Omega QMS supports furniture manufacturers with:

  • BIS certification strategy and execution
  • Stock declaration and compliance documentation
  • R&D and export exemption advisory
  • Ongoing compliance audits and regulatory updates

If you need clarity on how this amendment applies to your products, imports, or existing inventory, our team can help you navigate the requirements smoothly.

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