Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Nov 20: The government on Thursday announced measures to simplify the import of steel grades not covered under Quality Control Orders (QCOs) and approved the extension of certain exemptions following feedback from industry stakeholders.

The Ministry of Steel conducted a review of existing import requirements to streamline processes and enhance ease of doing business. One key change involves removing the need for importers to seek clarification or a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry for steel grades not listed under any QCO.

“All non-QCO steel grades, across all relevant HSN codes, have now been mapped on the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS) Portal. Importers can generate SIMS numbers directly for these grades without prior approval from the Ministry of Steel,” the official statement said.

Steel grades covered under QCOs must continue to be imported only from manufacturers holding valid BIS licences. Imports from non-BIS manufacturers can still be considered under an exemption mechanism, evaluated by a Committee set up on May 14, 2020, comprising representatives from BIS, DGFT, and industry experts.

The Ministry also extended previous exemptions granted to the industry:

• Chapter 73 steel products: Exemption now applies to imports with Bill of Lading shipped on or before March 31, 2026 (earlier October 31, 2025).
• Stainless steel flat products (IS 6911, IS 5522, IS 15997): Exemption now extended to shipments on or before March 31, 2026 (earlier December 31, 2025).

These reforms are aimed at simplifying compliance, reducing regulatory delays, and supporting smoother steel imports for businesses across the country.