BIS Notification Update 2026: Major Fee Concessions for MSMEs, Startups & Women Entrepreneurs

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made a noteworthy notification dated 17 th March 2026 that is amending the Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018. This revision is very reliefful in the annual minimum marking fees of several types of enterprises, which facilitates the business and promotes inclusiveness.

We are going to deconstruct the major highlights and their implications on businesses.

Overview of the Notification

This amendment amends the previous notification (dated 5th August 2021 and further updates) under Scheme-I of Schedule-II. The amended provisions come into effect on the date of publication.

The main considerations are to ease the financial burden on:

Micro Enterprises
Small Enterprises
Startups
Women-led Enterprises

Key Amendments Explained

1. Fee Concession 80% on Micro Enterprises

Micro-scale businesses will now be enjoying:

Eighty percent decrease in minimum marking fee per year.
In comparison with the charge charged on large-scale businesses.
Valid till 31 May 2029

This action will greatly reduce the cost of acquiring and sustainability of BIS certification among the small manufacturers.

2. 50% Fee Reduction of Small Businesses

Small businesses can be provided with:

Fifty percent marking fee reduction in annual minimum.
Valid until 31 May 2029

This assists the growing businesses to scale operations even as they remain consistent with BIS standards.

3. 80% Fee Concession for Startups

Recognizing the importance of innovation, BIS has extended:

80% concession for startups
Applicable till 31 May 2029

This is a major boost for new businesses entering regulated markets.

4. Additional 10% Concession for Women Entrepreneurs

Women-led enterprises will receive:

Additional 10% concession
Over and above the applicable category (micro/small/medium)
Valid till 31 May 2029

This initiative promotes women entrepreneurship and inclusive growth.

Why This Notification Matters

Reduced Compliance Cost

Lower marking fees make BIS certification more accessible, especially for MSMEs.

Encouragement for Startups

Startups can now enter regulated markets with reduced financial barriers.

Boost to Women Entrepreneurs

Extra incentives encourage participation and growth of women-led businesses.

Alignment with Government Vision

The notification aligns with initiatives like:

Make in India
Startup India
MSME Development Act 2006

Impact on Businesses

Businesses applying for or maintaining BIS certification under Scheme-I will directly benefit from:

Lower operational costs
Improved compliance rates
Increased competitiveness in domestic and international markets

This is especially beneficial for manufacturers dealing with mandatory certification products.

Validity & Applicability

Effective Date: 17th March 2026
Validity of Concessions: Till 31 May 2029
Applicable Under: Scheme-I of BIS Conformity Assessment

Conclusion

This new amendment of the Bureau of Indian Standards is a move in the right direction to assist MSMEs, startups, and women entrepreneurs. BIS is not only boosting compliance, but also driving innovation and inclusive industrial growth by greatly lowering certification costs.

To ensure BIS certification early and ensure stronger presence in the market, businesses should exploit these concessions.