Manufacturers
Producing Cotton Bales in India
Quality Control Order (QCO) Update

Quality Control Order (QCO) Update
The Government of India issues this Quality Control Order to ensure safety, reliability, and standardization of Cotton Bales across the country.
Dear Viewer, This is an important update for all BIS license holders, new applicants, manufacturers, importers, and product sellers regarding the Cotton Bales (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2023.
Producing Cotton Bales in India
Importing Cotton Bales into India
Selling or distributing Cotton Bales in India
Existing license holders and new applicants
The Ministry of Textiles has issued the Cotton Bales (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2023. This Order will come into force on 27th August 2026.
Under this amendment, all cotton bales sold in the Indian market must comply with the Indian Standard IS 12171:2019. Once implemented, every manufacturer, seller, or supplier must ensure that their cotton bales:
Cotton bales produced solely for export are exempt from this requirement, as long as they meet the quality specifications provided by the foreign buyer.
| Title | Issue Date | View Order |
|---|---|---|
| Issue Order | — | Click Here |

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has been designated as the implementing and enforcing authority for this Order.
Failure to comply with these requirements will result in penalties under the BIS Act, 2016. These provisions help maintain product quality and ensure industry-wide regulatory compliance.
Additionally, any future changes or revisions made by BIS to the relevant Indian Standard will automatically apply to this Order from the date of publication.
Applicable Standard: IS 12171:2019

Manak Bhawan 9, B.S. Zafar Marg,
New Delhi - 110002
+91-11-23231903
txd@bis.gov.in
To be announced
The contents provided in this update are solely meant for general informational purposes. Before you make decisions or take action based on the information provided, it is advised to seek professional legal consultation.