Surat: The Union Ministry of Heavy Industries has proposed the implementation of a Quality Control Order (QCO) for high-speed textile machinery, including weaving machines (looms), their assemblies, sub-assemblies, components, and all types of embroidery machinery. The order, issued on August 28, 2024, states that the Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulation) Order, 2024, will be enforced from August 28, 2025. Once implemented, a Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) licence will be mandatory for manufacturing or importing such machinery.

The proposal has sparked concerns among industry stakeholders. Industrialists argue that India currently lacks world-class high-speed textile machinery, and enforcing the QCO could adversely impact imports, directly affecting the sector’s growth. The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SGCCI) even cancelled its SITME Expo, citing this issue. They warn that the move could negatively affect private textile parks and the upcoming PM Mitra Park near Navsari.

The Chamber has submitted a formal request to the Textile Commissioner of India, seeking either the cancellation of the QCO or a two-year extension in its implementation timeline. According to the government’s projection, India’s textile market is expected to grow from US$150 billion to US$300 billion by 2030. Achieving this target would require around 40,000 modern weaving machines over the next five years—most of which are currently imported.

With the QCO in force, imports would be restricted, potentially stalling the industry’s expansion. Given that the textile sector is the second-largest employer in India after agriculture, the policy may also affect job creation.

On April 7, Chamber President Vijay Mewawala, Vice President Nikhil Madrasi, and Secretary Nirav Mandlewala met Textile Commissioner Roop Rashi to express their concerns. They highlighted the impact on investments in South Gujarat’s upcoming textile parks. According to Mewawala, the Commissioner gave a positive response and assured that the matter would be taken up with the Union Government.

Notably, once the QCO comes into effect, no person will be allowed to manufacture, import, distribute, sell, hire, lease, store, or exhibit any machinery covered under the order without a valid BIS certification and Standard Mark. DeshGujarat