What’s changing?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has officially extended its certification requirements to cover furniture products. Starting February 2026, all foreign manufacturers exporting furniture to India will need to obtain BIS certification before their products can enter the Indian market.
This new regulation applies to the following product categories:
- Work chairs
- General-purpose chairs and stools
- Tables and desks
- Storage units
- Beds and bunk beds
If you are a furniture exporter, this means that your products will not be cleared by Indian customs without valid BIS certification.
Download here the Quality Control Order:
Quality Control Order BIS Furniture
Why is BIS certification required?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national authority responsible for standardization, quality control, and consumer safety in India. For an increasing number of product categories, BIS certification is mandatory before goods can be imported, distributed, or sold in the Indian market.
- This certification ensures that products meet Indian norms in areas such as:
- Material quality and safety
- Structural strength and stability
- User health and ergonomics
- Durability and compliance with local conditions
What does this mean for foreign manufacturers?
For furniture manufacturers and exporters, this new requirement means that preparing for certification must begin now.
Obtaining BIS certification involves:
1. Identifying the relevant Indian Standards (IS codes) that apply to your products.
2. Preparing the files required for the application
3. Testing your furniture in a BIS-recognized laboratory in India.
4. Factory inspection by BIS officials.
5. Receiving the BIS license, which must be renewed periodically.
The process can take between 6 and 8 months in total.
How RelationsAtWork can help
At RelationsAtWork, we specialize in helping foreign companies develop their activities in India and especially navigate Indian regulatory frameworks. Our team supports you throughout the BIS certification process, ensuring that you:
– Identify the correct product categories and standards.
– Prepare compliant technical documentation.
– Coordinate laboratory testing and factory inspections.
– Obtain your certification efficiently — avoiding costly delays at customs.
Contact us today to assess your compliance needs and start your BIS certification journey with confidence.
About the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
The BIS is India’s national standards body, operating under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. Its mission is to promote standardization, quality assurance, and consumer protection across industries.
