Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) – BIS ISI Mark Certification

Introduction

The Economy of India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with immense potential to compete with major global powers. Globalization has opened vast opportunities for international trade, including manufacturing, services, import-export, and product sales across borders.

Over recent decades, many foreign companies have established manufacturing operations in India, drawn by its economic growth, skilled workforce, and market potential. The manufacturing sector plays a crucial role as the engine of growth, contributing to India’s GDP, expanding export capacity, and strengthening foreign exchange reserves.

India has emerged as a leading destination for investment and manufacturing, attracting global brands such as Amazon (electronics manufacturing) and Samsung Display Noida, which have made substantial investments in India. To further accelerate this growth, the Government of India offers special incentives and policies to support manufacturing.

Import and BIS FMCS Registration

India is also a major hub for international manufacturers who export their products into the Indian market. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) operates the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS), which allows foreign manufacturers to use the Standard Mark (ISI mark)—provided their products comply with Indian standards.

Foreign companies cannot sell products directly in India without conforming to Indian product standards, testing, and marking requirements. The FMCS ensures that products imported into India meet these BIS standards for quality and safety.

What is FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme)?

The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS) is operated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under Scheme-I of Schedule-II, as per the BIS Act, 2016 and BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

This scheme enables foreign manufacturers to apply for the BIS ISI mark to sell their products in India. The Foreign Manufacturers Certification Department (FMCD) is the authorized department under BIS that grants certification to overseas manufacturers.

Purpose of FMCS

The primary objective of the FMCS is to ensure that Indian consumers receive safe, reliable, and high-quality products that comply with Indian standards.

The certification process involves a factory audit of overseas manufacturing units to verify compliance with BIS requirements. Additionally, every foreign applicant must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to coordinate with BIS and represent them in India.

Obtaining a BIS FMCS Certificate is mandatory for all foreign manufacturers wishing to export and sell their products in India under the ISI mark scheme.

BIS Standard Mark / ISI Mark for FMCD

Since 2000, the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Department (FMCD) has been responsible for issuing the ISI mark to foreign manufacturers.

The BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) includes:

• A licence number (CM/L-XXXXXXXXXX) displayed below the mark.
• The Indian Standard number displayed above the mark.

This mark is granted only after successful evaluation and certification by BIS.

Requirements for FMCS Certification

Foreign manufacturers seeking to export products to India must meet the following key requirements:

1. The manufacturing unit must be located outside India.
2. The product must conform to the applicable Indian Standards (ISS).
3. The factory must have all manufacturing and testing facilities available on-site.
4. Adequate testing equipment and qualified quality control personnel must be present in-house.
5. The manufacturer must accept the Scheme of Inspection & Testing (SIT) and pay the annual marking fee.
6. The applicant must accept all terms and conditions of the BIS licence.

Note:
Separate applications must be submitted for each product and each factory location.

Mandatory Documents Required for FMCS ISI Mark Certification

With the introduction of the BIS online application system, the documentation process has become more efficient. The essential documents include:

• Factory/company registration documents
• Manufacturing process flow chart
• Details of manufacturing capabilities (in-house or outsourced)
• Testing facilities and quality control procedures
• Records of quality parameters
• Acceptance of Scheme of Testing & Inspection and Annual Marking Fee
• Laboratory test reports and related BIS documentation

Process for Grant of BIS Licence under FMCS

The FMCS certification process involves several key steps:

Step 1: Application Submission

• Prepare and compile all required documents.
• Submit the application online and send a hard copy to the FMCD department.
• BIS verifies the application and raises queries if required.
• Once verified, the application is recorded, and an acknowledgement number is issued.

Step 2: Audit / Factory Inspection

• A BIS officer arranges a factory visit on a mutually agreed date.
• Inspection fees must be paid before the visit.
• The officer inspects manufacturing and testing facilities and collects product samples for testing in a BIS-approved lab.

Step 3: Sample Testing

• The sealed sample is tested at a BIS-approved independent laboratory.
• The manufacturer bears the testing costs.
• Test results are sent to BIS for review.

Step 4: Grant of Licence

• Upon satisfactory inspection and test results, the manufacturer pays the licence fee, advance marking fee, and clears any dues.
• BIS issues a Letter of Grant of Licence to the applicant.

Step 5: Agreement & Indemnity Bond

An agreement between the applicant and BIS includes:

• Fees and payment terms
• Nomination details
• Rights and responsibilities of the licensee
• Indemnity and termination clauses
• Performance bank guarantee (USD 10,000 from an RBI-approved bank)

The initial licence is granted for one year and can be renewed annually.

Timeline for BIS Licence

On average, it takes about six months to obtain a BIS licence from the date of submission of a complete application.
However, delays may occur due to:

• Incomplete documentation
• Late responses to BIS queries
• Inspection scheduling issues
• Sample testing delays

Surveillance Inspection

BIS conducts periodic surveillance inspections and market sampling to ensure the continued compliance and performance of foreign licensees.

Complaint Redressal

If a complaint is received against a licensed product:

• BIS investigates under IS/ISO 10002 standards.
• The manufacturer must replace or repair the defective product.
• Any damages or losses are the responsibility of the licensee, not BIS.

Renewal of BIS Licence

The BIS licence is valid for one year and can be renewed annually by submitting:

• A renewal application form
• Prescribed renewal fees
• A Chartered Accountant–certified statement of marking fees

Guidelines for Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR)

Every foreign manufacturer must have an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) or a branch office in India to handle regulatory obligations under the BIS Act, 2016.

If a branch office is unavailable, the manufacturer must appoint an Indian resident as AIR to act on their behalf.

Key Requirements for AIR:

1. AIR must be a resident of India.
2. AIR must provide written consent accepting responsibility for compliance under BIS laws, rules, and licence terms.
3. AIR can represent only one foreign manufacturer at a time.
4. AIR must have no conflict of interest with third-party testing agencies.
5. AIR should possess at least a Bachelor’s degree and good knowledge of BIS regulations.
6. The AIR’s name will be listed in the BIS licence documents.

Summary

The FMCS Scheme ensures that all imported products meet BIS quality and safety standards before entering the Indian market. It enables foreign manufacturers to legally sell their products in India under the ISI mark, ensuring consumer protection, fair trade, and quality compliance.

By following the FMCS process, maintaining proper documentation, and appointing a qualified AIR, foreign manufacturers can efficiently access the Indian market while upholding global quality standards.