India's import landscape is undergoing a significant transformation driven by a mix of economic strategy, national security interests, and the pursuit of self-reliance under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. For businesses and importers, staying in sync with evolving import policies is not just beneficial—it's essential. With policy changes impacting everything from licensing requirements to product standards, adapting quickly ensures continued access to the Indian market while avoiding penalties, delays, and rejections at customs.

In recent years, the Indian government has placed increasing emphasis on import regulations to control the influx of substandard and non-compliant goods. This includes stricter enforcement of quality certifications, increased scrutiny on import documentation, and enhanced digital tracking mechanisms through platforms like the ICEGATE portal and the introduction of e-SANCHIT for electronic document submission. These shifts have been implemented to improve transparency, facilitate trade, and curb the import of low-quality or potentially hazardous products.

A major area of focus has been the mandatory certification of products under various quality control orders (QCOs). The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays a critical role in this transformation by ensuring that only products meeting India’s safety and quality benchmarks are allowed entry into the country. Importers dealing in electronics, toys, medical devices, and a growing list of consumer and industrial goods now need BIS certification prior to customs clearance. This step is vital not only for compliance but also to establish brand credibility and consumer trust in the Indian market.

Moreover, India is aligning many of its trade policies with international practices. The introduction of the Import Monitoring System (IMS) and Pre-Import Approvals for specific categories of goods reflects the government’s intent to balance trade while ensuring national interests are protected. Importers are now expected to conduct more rigorous due diligence before sourcing goods from international suppliers. They must account for harmonized system (HS) code classifications, tariff structures, and special licensing conditions which could affect the cost and feasibility of their import operations.

The shift towards digitization has also changed the way importers interact with Indian regulatory bodies. Most clearances, registrations, and compliance-related submissions are now handled online. This includes processes related to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Customs, BIS, FSSAI, WPC, and more. While this streamlines procedures and improves tracking, it also requires importers to have better documentation, proper classification, and a clear understanding of regulatory expectations.

With environmental and safety concerns on the rise, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) norms, especially for plastic waste, e-waste, and battery waste, are now being linked to import permissions. Importers of certain products must register under EPR frameworks and ensure their goods comply with applicable recycling and disposal norms. These obligations signal India’s growing commitment to sustainable trade practices.

BIS for Import – Simplified with Agile Regulatory
Importing goods into India often requires compliance with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), especially for products notified under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) or ISI mark certification. At Agile Regulatory, we help businesses obtain BIS Certification efficiently, ensuring that products like electronics, medical devices, and household appliances meet all technical and labeling requirements before entering the Indian market. Our team provides end-to-end support—from application and product testing coordination to liaison with BIS officials—so importers can avoid costly delays and customs holds. With frequent updates to BIS policies, partnering with an expert like Agile Regulatory ensures smooth import operations and full regulatory alignment.

Conclusion
India’s evolving import policies reflect a broader vision of economic resilience, consumer protection, and sustainability. Businesses that adapt proactively—by understanding regulatory changes, securing the right certifications, and embracing digital platforms—can turn policy challenges into competitive advantages. With the right strategy and the right partners, navigating India’s import environment becomes a streamlined, growth-enabling process.