FMCS is a scheme managed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) since 2000 under the BIS Act of 2016. This program allows foreign manufacturers to use the ISI Mark on their products, signaling compliance with Indian Standards. The primary goal is to ensure that products entering the Indian market are safe, reliable, and of high quality.
FMCS certification applies specifically to manufacturing units located outside India. It involves thorough factory audits and the appointment of an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to oversee compliance with BIS norms. This certification is essential for uninterrupted export and sales of foreign products in India.
BIS Standard Mark/ISI Mark for Foreign Manufacturers
The ISI Mark is the hallmark of quality and safety for products in India. Under FMCS, the Bureau of Indian Standards issues this mark to foreign manufacturers. The ISI Mark includes a license number ("CM/L-XXXXXXXXXX") and the applicable Indian Standard number. Only products that pass rigorous testing and comply with Indian standards can bear this mark.
Why is BIS Certification Mandatory?
India is one of the largest markets for international products, but it has strong standards to ensure quality and safety. Manufacturers cannot directly launch products in the Indian market without meeting these standards. FMCS ensures that foreign manufacturers comply with Indian norms, thereby protecting consumers and maintaining market integrity.
Key Requirements for FMCS Certification
Foreign manufacturers must meet several conditions before applying for BIS certification under FMCS:
1. Location: The manufacturing unit should be located outside India.
2. Product Compliance: The product must meet applicable Indian Standard Specifications (ISS).
3. Infrastructure: The factory must have adequate manufacturing machinery and in-house testing facilities.
4. Quality Control: Trained personnel and equipment for product testing must be available on-site.
5. Inspection Agreement: The manufacturer must accept the Scheme of Inspection and Testing (SIT) and pay an annual marking fee.
6. Separate Applications: Each product and factory location requires a separate application.
Mandatory Documents for FMCS ISI Mark Certification
The BIS has smoothed the certification process with an online application system. However, manufacturers must gather the following documents before initiating the process:
-Factory or company registration documents
-Flowchart of the manufacturing process
-Details of in-house and outsourced manufacturing capabilities
-Testing facilities and quality control parameters
-Product testing reports
-Acceptance of Scheme of Testing & Inspection (SIT) and annual marking fees
Step-by-Step Process for FMCS Certification
The process of obtaining a BIS Certification under FMCS involves several steps:
1. Application Submission:
-Compile all required documents.
-Submit the application online and send a hard copy to the FMCD department.
-BIS will verify the application and raise queries if necessary.
2. Audit and Inspection:
-BIS officials visit the factory for inspection after the remittance of inspection fees.
-They verify manufacturing processes and testing infrastructure.
-Product samples are collected and sent to an independent BIS-approved laboratory.
3. Sample Testing:
-The product sample undergoes rigorous testing.
-The applicant bears the testing charges.
4. Grant of License:
-Upon satisfactory audit and testing results, the applicant pays the license fee and an advance marking fee.
-A license is issued, valid for one year, with options for renewal.
5. Indemnity Bond:
-The applicant must sign an agreement detailing fees, responsibilities, and terms of the license.
Performance Bank Guarantee
Applicants must provide a performance bank guarantee of USD 10,000 from a Reserve Bank of India-approved bank. This ensures the manufacturer complies with BIS standards throughout the license period.
Timeline for BIS Certification
The average time for obtaining a BIS license is approximately six months, though delays may occur due to incomplete applications, testing issues, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Surveillance and Compliance
BIS conducts regular surveillance inspections and draws market samples to ensure continued compliance with standards. If complaints arise, an investigation is carried out, and manufacturers are required to resolve the issue promptly. Any liabilities for damages rest solely with the licensee.
Renewal of BIS License
The BIS license is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. Manufacturers must submit a renewal application along with the prescribed fees and relevant documents, certified by a chartered accountant.
Guidelines for Authorized Indian Representatives (AIR)
Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to handle certification-related processes in India. The AIR must meet the following criteria:
-Be an Indian resident.
-Have a bachelor’s degree and knowledge of BIS regulations.
-Represent only one foreign manufacturer at a time.
-Ensure compliance with BIS rules and regulations.
Benefits of FMCS Certification
-Market Access: Enables foreign manufacturers to enter the Indian market legally and smoothly.
-Consumer Trust: ISI-marked products are trusted for their quality and safety.
-Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to Indian standards protects manufacturers from legal issues.
-Business Growth: Certification helps build a strong brand reputation in India.
Challenges in FMCS Certification
-Complex application process
-Strong testing and inspection requirements
-Long timelines for approval
-Need for an experienced consultant to navigate the system
Why Hire a Consultant for FMCS Certification?
Given the complexity of the FMCS certification process, hiring a consultant can save time and effort. A professional consultant like Compliance Calendar LLP offers:
-End-to-end support for documentation, testing, and inspections.
-Expert guidance on BIS regulations.
-Hassle-free application management and follow-up.
Aleph India Group has over 16 years of experience in FMCS certification and provides seamless services to ensure foreign manufacturers meet Indian regulatory standards.
Conclusion
The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) plays an important role in regulating the quality of products entering the Indian market. By obtaining FMCS certification, foreign manufacturers can ensure compliance with Indian standards, build consumer trust, and expand their business in one of the world’s largest markets. While the process may seem daunting, professional consultants like Compliance Calendar LLP make it manageable and efficient, helping manufacturers check the complexities with ease. You can book a consultation with our BIS experts at info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp us at 9988424211.
FAQs
1. What is the FMCS certification, and why is it required?
Ans. The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) is operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to certify products manufactured outside India for compliance with Indian standards. It allows foreign manufacturers to use the ISI Mark, which is a symbol of quality, safety, and reliability. FMCS certification is mandatory for foreign manufacturers to export and sell their products in the Indian market.
2. What products are covered under the FMCS scheme?
Ans. FMCS covers a wide range of products across various categories, including electrical appliances, electronics, chemicals, building materials, food products, and more. Each product category must meet specific Indian Standards (IS). A separate application is required for each product and factory location.
3. What are the main steps involved in obtaining FMCS certification?
Ans. The process involves the following steps:
1. Submission of the application with required documents.
2. Factory audit and inspection by BIS officials.
3. Testing of product samples in BIS-approved laboratories.
4. Payment of fees (license, marking, and testing fees).
5. Grant of the FMCS license upon satisfactory inspection and testing results.
6. The entire process typically takes around six months.
4. What documents are required for FMCS certification?
Ans. Key documents include:
-Factory or company registration documents.
-Flowchart of the manufacturing process.
-Details of in-house testing facilities.
-Product quality control parameters and records.
-Product testing reports as per Indian Standards.
-Acceptance of BIS terms, including the Scheme of Testing & Inspection (SIT).
-Additional documents may be required based on specific product categories
5. Who can act as an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR), and what are their responsibilities?
Ans. An AIR must be an Indian resident and is appointed to represent the foreign manufacturer in India. Responsibilities include:
-Handling certification processes with BIS.
-Ensuring compliance with BIS rules and regulations.
-Addressing queries from BIS and facilitating inspections.
-Managing the renewal process for the FMCS license.
-An AIR can only represent one foreign manufacturer at a time.
6. How long is an FMCS license valid, and how can it be renewed?
Ans. An FMCS license is initially granted for one year. It can be renewed annually by submitting a renewal application along with the prescribed fees and required documents. Renewal must be certified by a chartered accountant, and all outstanding dues must be cleared.
7. What happens if a certified product fails to meet standards after certification?
Ans. If complaints are received about a certified product, BIS investigates as per IS/ISO 10002. Actions may include:
-Free replacement or repair of defective products.
-Immediate corrective measures to resolve the issue.
-Suspension or cancellation of the FMCS license in severe cases. The manufacturer is solely responsible for damages or losses resulting from non-compliance.
