In a significant step towards enhancing the quality and safety of industrial materials, the Government of India has implemented the Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025. This new rule aims to standardize the production and use of refined zinc, a key ingredient in various industries, from construction to electronics. The order mandates refined zinc to conform to a specific set of Indian standards, which will be monitored and enforced by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This is an important step in ensuring that the refined zinc used in the country meets the required quality parameters, which contributes to the safety and sustainability of products made from this essential raw material.

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What is Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025?

The Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025 is a government regulation aimed at ensuring that refined zinc, a widely used material in Indian industries, meets the highest quality standards. The order falls under the purview of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 2016. It mandates that all refined zinc produced and sold in India must conform to the Indian Standard IS 209:2024, which outlines specifications for refined zinc. The order is due to enter into force six months after publication, meaning its provisions will come into force on 17 October 2025. The move is part of a broader initiative to enhance quality control of critical raw materials and promote consistent manufacturing practices across industries. Manufacturers must obtain BIS certification to demonstrate that their products meet these standards. Refined zinc plays an important role in sectors such as galvanization, alloy manufacturing and battery production, making its standardization crucial for the overall growth of the Indian economy.

Key Provisions of the Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025

Several important provisions are outlined in the Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025. These provisions serve as a guide for manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers of refined zinc, ensuring that the material adheres to the required standards. These are:

1. Short Title and Commencement: The Order is called the Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025 and comes into effect six months after its publication date, i.e., on 17th October 2025. This provides a transition period for stakeholders to comply with the regulations.
2. Applicability: The Order applies specifically to refined zinc, but does not cover zinc intended for export. This ensures that the regulations focus on the domestic market and quality control for local consumption.
3. Compulsory use of Standard Mark: All refined zinc products must conform to the Indian Standard IS 209:2024, which specifies the requirements for refined zinc quality. The goods must bear the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Standard Mark, indicating compliance with the required specifications. This certification must be obtained under Scheme-1 of Schedule-II of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.
4. Certification and Enforcement Authority: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is designated as the certifying and enforcing authority for ensuring compliance with the quality control provisions. The BIS will oversee the certification process and enforcement of the standards for refined zinc to maintain product quality and safety.

Also Read: Refined Nickel (Quality Control) Order, 2025: A Step Towards Strengthening India's Industrial Safety and Innovation

Role of BIS in Refined Zinc QCO

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays an important role in the Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025 by acting as the certification and enforcement authority. BIS ensures that all refined zinc produced or sold in India complies with the Indian Standard IS 209:2024, which outlines the quality specifications required for zinc. This certification process involves rigorous testing and inspection of production processes and final products. In addition, manufacturers must first complete the BIS registration process, submit relevant documentation, and undergo assessments. Once registered, they can apply for BIS certification and after a successful evaluation, they can use the BIS standard mark on their products. This makes sure that the quality of refined zinc is consistent across the market, shielding consumer interests and supporting industrial reliability. BIS involvement helps maintain the integrity of the zinc supply chain.

Benefits of the Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025

The benefits of this QCO are: 

• Product quality improvement: The order ensures that refined zinc complies with the Indian Standard IS 209:2024, which guarantees a consistent and high-quality product for industries like galvanizing and die-casting.
• Enhanced consumer protection: By implementing BIS certification and requiring BIS registration, the Order reduces the risk of substandard or unsafe zinc products entering the market, thus protecting public health and industrial safety.
• Streamlined compliance process: The Bureau of Indian Standards, as the certification authority, simplifies the compliance process by providing clear guidelines for obtaining BIS certification and regular inspections, making it easier for manufacturers to adhere to quality standards.
• Boost domestic manufacturing: By setting a higher standard for domestic zinc production, the order supports the “Make in India” initiative, boosting the competitiveness and credibility of Indian products in global markets.
• Exemption for export goods: The order excludes products intended for export from mandatory compliance, ensuring that manufacturers can meet domestic and international market demands without facing unnecessary regulatory requirements.

How the Refined Zinc Quality Control Order is Important for Various Stakeholders?

The Refined Zinc QCO, 2025, is very important for stakeholders:

• Manufacturer: Mandatory compliance to IS 209:2024 ensures consistency in product quality. This helps manufacturers gain credibility and improve competitiveness in the domestic market. The use of the standard mark becomes necessary, allowing production processes to be aligned with national quality standards.
• Consumers: Consumers benefit from improved product reliability and safety. The assurance of BIS-certified refined zinc reduces the risk of inferior materials in end-use applications, especially in the construction, automotive and electrical industries.
• Exporters: Although the Order does not apply to exports, maintaining BIS certification can enhance reputation in international markets. It helps demonstrate adherence to rigorous quality standards, potentially opening up new market opportunities.
• Regulatory Bodies: The order provides a clear legal framework for quality enforcement. It strengthens the role of the Bureau of Indian Standards to monitor, certify and take corrective action against non-compliance.
• Industries Using Refined Zinc: End-user industries receive standardized raw materials, improving performance consistency across products such as galvanized steel and alloys. It also helps reduce material rejection and increases operational efficiency.
• Environment and Public Health: Quality control reduces the risk of environmental hazards caused by substandard materials. Properly refined zinc minimizes contamination and supports safe manufacturing practices.

Also Read: The Primary Lead (Quality Control) Order, 2025: Elevating Product Quality and Consumer Trust

Impact on the Indian Economy

The Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025 is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the Indian economy. By ensuring that the refined zinc used in manufacturing is of the highest quality, the government is creating an environment of trust and accountability. This will help Indian businesses to be more competitive in the global market. The availability of high-quality raw materials will increase the overall quality of products, making Indian industries more attractive to international buyers. Moreover, the introduction of this order coincides with the government’s vision of promoting domestic manufacturing through initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat. By regulating essential raw materials such as refined zinc, the government is ensuring that the country’s manufacturing capabilities are built on a foundation of quality and sustainability.

Conclusion

The Refined Zinc (Quality Control) Order, 2025 is an important step towards improving the quality and safety of industrial materials in India. By mandating compliance with the Indian standard IS 209:2024, the order ensures that refined zinc used in key industries such as construction, automotive and electronics meets high quality norms. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays an important role in certification and enforcement, enhancing consumer protection and promoting domestic manufacturing. Manufacturers should comply with the order by obtaining BIS certification and operating under BIS registration, which will contribute to the overall development of the industry as well as assure consumers of higher standards of the products they purchase. This regulation not only promotes sustainable production practices but also aligns with the government’s vision of an Atmanirbhar India by improving the global competitiveness of Indian industries. Ultimately, the order will boost trust, elevate product standards, and contribute to the country’s long-term economic growth and industrial development.