Surat, known as the textile hub of India, is witnessing an appeal from various industry associations, including the Federation of Indian Art Silk Weaving Industry (FIASWI), requesting the government to eliminate the Quality Control Orders (QCO) associated with Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS) certification for polyester yarn.
These industry bodies are calling for the removal of these orders, which are slated to come into effect on July 3, 2023. In a letter addressed to Rachna Shah, the Textile Secretary of the Government of India, and J K Gupta, Head Specifications (Textiles) at BIS, FIASWI has emphasized the necessity of rectifying impractical provisions in the current guidelines.
FIASWI has stated that polyester yarn primarily serves as an industrial raw material, and buyers and customers are already well-informed about their specific quality requirements for manufacturing fabrics. The association argues that the BIS certification scheme, which is currently voluntary, should not be subjected to mandatory certification guidelines.
Bharat Gandhi, Chairman of FIASWI, has expressed his concerns, stating that the technical requirements for yarn under BIS certification contradict the main objective of the BIS, which is to provide third-party assurance of quality and reliability of products to the user industry. Gandhi also emphasizes the need for a provision to compensate user industries for any losses incurred due to the supply of inferior quality yarn.
FIASWI has warned that the implementation of the QCO could result in a severe shortage of polyester yarn for user industries, leading to the closure of small weaving and knitting units, unemployment, and the possibility of a few BIS-certified suppliers taking advantage of the situation for profit.
As the textile industry in Surat anxiously awaits the decision, stakeholders are hopeful that the government will consider their appeal and address the concerns raised by industry associations. Any outcome will have significant implications for the polyester yarn market and the overall business landscape in the region.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with relevant authorities and industry experts for specific guidance related to their circumstances.