India: QCO exemption continues for stainless steel imports to ease supply constraints

• Exemption covers key stainless steel HS codes including 7304, 7306, 7323 series
  
  
• Limited domestic availability and BIS certification gaps persist
  
  

India's Ministry of Steel has extended QCO exemptions specifically for stainless steel products, covering a range of HS codes such as 73044100, 73044900 (seamless pipes and tubes), 73064000 (welded pipes), and 73239310/73239390 (stainless steel utensils). The move aims to address ongoing supply constraints and compliance challenges across critical downstream segments.

The Ministry highlighted that domestic availability of BIS-compliant stainless steel products remains limited in certain categories, particularly for specialised and food-grade applications. In addition, certification readiness across suppliers has not kept pace with demand, impacting procurement cycles for industries such as infrastructure, process engineering, and consumer goods.

To ensure uninterrupted supply and avoid project delays, the exemption has been granted for shipments with bill of lading dated on or before 30 June 2026. This is expected to ease near-term supply pressures and stabilise market dynamics.

While the relief supports immediate demand, it also reflects a transitional phase, with the government continuing to push for stronger domestic compliance and capacity expansion in the stainless steel segment.