Ropes and Cordages QCO Amendment 2026: 12-Month Exemption for Recycled Plastic Products

The Ministry of Textiles has issued the Ropes and Cordages (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026, introducing an important relaxation for certain products manufactured using recycled plastic waste.

The amendment was published in the Official Gazette on 5 June 2026 and came into force immediately upon publication. The key change provides a temporary exemption from the Quality Control Order (QCO) requirements for specific goods made from recycled plastic waste.

This update is particularly important for manufacturers, recyclers, importers, and businesses operating in the ropes and cordages sector.

What is the Ropes and Cordages QCO?

The Ropes and Cordages (Quality Control) Order, 2024 was introduced to ensure that ropes and cordage products sold in India meet prescribed quality and safety standards.

Under the QCO, covered products must comply with the applicable Indian Standards and certification requirements before being manufactured, sold, distributed, or imported into the Indian market.

The objective is to improve product quality, consumer safety, and consistency across the industry.

What Has Changed in the 2026 Amendment?

The Government has inserted a new proviso in Clause 3 of the Ropes and Cordages (Quality Control) Order, 2024.

According to the amendment, the QCO requirements will not apply for a period of twelve months to products specified at Serial Number 7 of the Schedule, provided those products are manufactured using recycled plastic waste.

This temporary exemption is intended to support the use of recycled materials and encourage sustainable manufacturing practices.

Effective Date of the Amendment

The amendment came into force on:

The exemption period begins from the date of publication of the amendment order.

Which Products Receive the Exemption?

The amendment specifically applies to goods covered under Serial Number 7 of the Schedule of the Ropes and Cordages (Quality Control) Order, 2024, when those products are manufactured using recycled plastic waste.

Manufacturers should carefully review the Schedule of the original QCO to determine whether their products fall within the scope of this exemption.

Purpose of the Exemption

The Government's decision is expected to support several policy objectives.

Encouraging Recycling

The exemption promotes the use of recycled plastic waste in manufacturing processes.

Supporting Sustainable Manufacturing

Businesses using recycled materials may receive temporary regulatory relief, encouraging environmentally responsible production.

Reducing Plastic Waste

The move aligns with broader efforts to improve plastic waste management and recycling in India.

Promoting Circular Economy Practices

Using recycled materials helps reduce dependence on virgin plastic and supports resource conservation.

Impact on Manufacturers

Manufacturers producing eligible products from recycled plastic waste may benefit from temporary relief from the QCO requirements for the specified period.

However, businesses should ensure that:

• Their products qualify under the exemption.
• The products are manufactured using recycled plastic waste.
• Proper records and documentation are maintained.

Applicable environmental and regulatory requirements continue to be followed.

Impact on Importers and Traders

Importers and traders dealing with covered products should review the amendment carefully to understand whether the exemption affects their supply chain and compliance obligations.

Businesses should verify product classification and maintain supporting documentation wherever necessary.

Why This Amendment Matters

The amendment demonstrates the Government's continued focus on:

➜ Sustainability

➜ Resource efficiency

➜ Recycling initiatives

➜ Environmental responsibility

➜ Support for recycled-material industries

By providing a temporary exemption, the Government aims to encourage greater adoption of recycled plastic waste in manufacturing activities.

What Businesses Should Do Next

Companies involved in ropes and cordages manufacturing should:

Review Product Coverage

Confirm whether products fall under Serial Number 7 of the Schedule.

Verify Material Usage

Ensure that products are manufactured using recycled plastic waste.

Maintain Compliance Records

Keep documentation related to raw materials and manufacturing processes.

Monitor Future Notifications

Businesses should stay updated regarding any further amendments, extensions, or changes after the 12-month exemption period expires.

Conclusion

The Ropes and Cordages (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026 introduces a significant temporary exemption for certain products manufactured from recycled plastic waste. Effective from 5 June 2026, the exemption applies for a period of twelve months and is expected to support sustainable manufacturing and recycling initiatives.

Manufacturers, importers, and businesses operating in the ropes and cordages sector should review the amendment carefully and assess its impact on their compliance obligations. Understanding the scope of the exemption will help businesses take advantage of the relief while continuing to meet applicable regulatory requirements.

Need Help with BIS and QCO Compliance?

Need assistance with BIS Certification, Quality Control Orders (QCOs), product compliance, or regulatory approvals? PSR Compliance provides end-to-end support for manufacturers, importers, and businesses across India.

📞 8796104190
📧 support@psrcompliance.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Ropes and Cordages QCO Amendment 2026?

The Ropes and Cordages QCO Amendment 2026 provides a temporary exemption for certain rope and cordage products manufactured from recycled plastic waste.

2. What exemption has been introduced under the 2026 amendment?

The amendment grants a 12-month exemption from QCO requirements for products listed under Serial Number 7 when manufactured using recycled plastic waste.

3. When did the Ropes and Cordages QCO Amendment 2026 come into effect?

The amendment came into force on 5 June 2026, the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

4. How long is the exemption valid under the amendment?

The exemption is valid for 12 months from the date the amendment came into effect.

5. Are all ropes and cordages exempt from BIS certification?

No. The exemption applies only to products covered under Serial Number 7 that are manufactured from recycled plastic waste.

6. Do manufacturers still need BIS certification for other rope products?

Yes. Rope and cordage products not covered by the exemption must continue to comply with applicable BIS standards and certification requirements.

7. Does the amendment apply to imported rope and cordage products?

The exemption applies only to eligible products covered under the amendment. Importers must continue to comply with applicable BIS and QCO requirements for non-exempt products.

8. Why has the Government introduced this exemption?

The exemption aims to encourage the use of recycled plastic waste, support sustainable manufacturing, and promote environmentally responsible production practices.

9. Which businesses can benefit from this amendment?

Manufacturers producing eligible rope and cordage products from recycled plastic waste can benefit from the temporary exemption.

10. What should manufacturers do during the exemption period?

Manufacturers should maintain proper records, verify product eligibility, and stay updated on future government notifications regarding QCO compliance.