BIS Updates on Gypsum Plaster Boards and Glass Fibre Boards

India’s construction sector continues to expand rapidly, making it a high‑potential market for construction materials such as Gypsum Plaster Boards (GPBs) and Glass Fibre Boards (GFBs). In response to quality, safety, and performance concerns, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced stringent regulations that make compliance with national standards mandatory before these products can be imported or sold in India. 

For foreign exporters, understanding these regulatory updates — including deadlines — is essential to ensure smooth customs clearance, market access, and competitive advantage. This guide explains the regulations, deadlines, compliance process, practical implications, and how strategic partners such as M+V Altios can support entry and expansion in India. 

BIS Notification & Mandatory Compliance Timeline

The Gypsum‑based Building Materials (Quality Control) Order, 2024 was notified in the Official Gazette by the Government of India on 6 March 2024. Compliance with BIS standards and certification is required before import, sale, or distribution of these products in India. 

Official BIS Notification (PDF): https://bis.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Gypsum-based-Building-Materials-QCO-2024.pdf 

Key Compliance Dates (2025–2026) 

These dates mean that all consignments entering India in 2025 and beyond must already have valid BIS certification and carry the ISI mark. 

BIS product listing & Scheme‑I certification: https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/products-under-compulsory-certification/scheme-i-mark-scheme/?lang=en 

Products Covered Under the BIS QCO

The BIS Quality Control Order applies to various gypsum‑based construction products, including: 

• Plain Gypsum Plaster Boards – IS 2095 (Part 1):2011 

• Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum Panels – IS 17400:2021 

• Coated/Laminated Gypsum Plaster Boards – IS 2095 (Part 2):2022 

• Reinforced Gypsum Boards & Ceiling Tiles – IS 2095 (Part 3):2022 

These products must meet performance, fire resistance, moisture resistance, and dimensional specifications as defined in the Indian Standards before import. 

Why BIS Compliance Matters

Regulatory and Customs Impact 

• Shipments without valid BIS certification can be detained, returned, or refused at Indian ports once enforcement is in effect. 

• Importers might face penalties and additional costs related to storage, demurrage, or legal non‑compliance. 

Market Access & Commercial Benefits 

• BIS‑certified products enjoy faster customs checks and enhanced trust from buyers. 

• Certification may be a prerequisite for participating in infrastructure or government tenders. 

Supply Chain Assurance 

• Advance certification helps avoid disruptions in supply chains and enables predictable delivery schedules. 

How Foreign Exporters Can Achieve BIS Compliance

Step‑by‑Step Compliance Path 

1. Product Classification and Standard Mapping 

Determine which IS codes apply to your products and ensure conformity of specifications. 

1. Documentation and Testing 

Prepare technical files, manufacturing process details, lab test reports, and quality control procedures. 

1. Application Submission 

Apply for BIS certification (Scheme‑I) via the BIS online portal — often coordinated through an Indian representative. 

1. Factory Inspection and Sample Testing 

BIS‑approved laboratories conduct tests; BIS may also inspect manufacturing facilities. 

1. Grant of License/Registration 

After successful evaluation, BIS certification (with ISI marking) is issued. 

5. Role of Strategic Partners: M+V Altios (India)

Foreign exporters often engage consulting and operational partners to manage regulatory compliance, logistics, and market entry challenges in India. M+V Altios stands out as a trusted partner for international companies entering and expanding in India. 

Who Are M+V Altios 

• A business advisory and operational partner founded in 2000 to support foreign companies entering the Indian market. (Business Standard) 

• Offers a comprehensive “Internationalisation 360°” model that covers market strategy, operations, compliance, HR, sales acceleration, sourcing, and post‑entry growth. (Business Standard) 

• Supports 1,200+ global companies across engineering, automotive, energy, healthcare, EV, manufacturing, aerospace & defence, and other sectors. (Business Standard) 

• Has offices in key Indian cities including Delhi, Gurugram, Bangalore, Pune, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad & Ahmedabad. (ThePrint) 

• Integrated into the Altios International network of 40+ offices across 25+ countries, enabling two‑way internationalisation (helping foreign companies in India and Indian companies abroad). (Business Standard) 

How M+V Altios Supports Exporters 

• Regulatory Compliance & BIS Assistance – Guidance on BIS registrations, documentation, application submission, and follow‑up. (Maiervidorno) 

• Import/Export & Logistics Support – End‑to‑end trade operations, customs documentation, licenses, duty assessments, and hassle‑free market entry. (Maiervidorno) 

• Supply Chain & Warehousing – Coordination of inventory, transportation, and local delivery. (Maiervidorno) 

• Cultural & Market Advisory – Helps foreign businesses adapt to India’s business environment and build sustainable local teams. (Maiervidorno) 

• Business Delegations & Networking – Facilitates strategic introductions, B2B meetings, and market partnerships. (Maiervidorno) 

This combination of regulatory, operational, and strategic support can be especially valuable for navigating BIS requirements and ensuring compliance well before shipment arrival. 

Practical Tips for Exporters

• Engage Early: Start BIS compliance processes before planning shipment schedules to avoid port delays. 

• Partner Locally: Work with importers or compliance specialists like M+V Altios to manage documentation. 

• Plan Supply Chain: Align logistics, warehousing, and import plans with regulatory timelines. 

• Monitor Updates: BIS periodically updates standards and lists; staying informed avoids surprises. 

Conclusion

The BIS mandates for Gypsum Plaster Boards and Glass Fibre Boards are critical regulatory requirements for foreign exporters to India. With deadlines in 2025 (notably 6 March 2025 for micro enterprises) and no new BIS mandate specifically for 2026, compliance remains essential for all shipments active through 2025–26. Early planning, careful documentation, and strategic partnerships — such as those provided by M+V Altios — ensure smoother compliance, market access, and long‑term success in India’s dynamic construction materials market. 

If you’d like, I can also create a visual compliance timeline (2024–2026) or a sample BIS application checklist tailored for gypsum board exporters. Just let me know!