Selling Toys in India? Here’s How Foreign Manufacturers Can Get BIS Certified

In the last few years, the Indian toy industry has experienced significant growth. The increased growth of toys is further effectively enhancing economic growth. On the other side, the increased domestic demand and the rising export market are attracting the attention of foreign manufacturers. Global manufacturers are paying attention to investing in the Indian toy industry. The diversity of the Indian market is spread across the globe. Due to multiple opportunities and fast market growth, they are entering the Indian markets. However, there is a condition for global toy manufacturers. 

Whoever wants to trade in the Indian market must be registered with the Bureau of Indian Standards under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme. Before establishing the business, the global operator should be aligned with national regulatory compliance with regulations. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how foreign manufacturers can build a toy unit in India, the BIS license, the rules & regulations, the processes, and the legal requirements. 

Why are Foreign Manufacturers interested in the Indian Toy Market? 

The large and growing consumer base is an attractive point for global businesses. The Indian toy industry has become another attractive market due to its increasing demand. The increase in disposable incomes and the large population are driving demand for toys. Another attraction point is the low-cost workforce.

India has the largest population, and its population percentage is under 14. This is pointing towards the significant consumer base for toys within India. The demand of Indian consumers is moving towards high-quality and educational toys. 

Apart from toy manufacturing, the labor cost is also lower in comparison to the other country’s labor costs. With lower labor costs, India is further popular for its skilled and experienced workforce. 

Why is BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers Required?

In India, the BIS certification for toys is mandatory. Whether you are a foreign manufacturer, distributor, or seller, obtaining the BIS toys license is compulsory. Without the toys BIS certificate, you are not allowed to work in Indian markets. While the certification for a foreign manufacturer is required to regulate the imported products. The registration also allows the authority to ensure the safety and quality standards. Here is why BIS for toy manufacturers is required:

Ensure Quality and Safety

The toys’ BIS certification ensures that the products imported into India must meet the specified safety and reliability standards. Imported goods align with Indian standards. The toy registration restricts the entry of substandard toys that potentially harm the kids. Consequently, the Indian national authority, including the Bureau of Indian Standards, established stringent regulations to prevent substandard products from entering the Indian markets.

Compliance with Regulations

To gain market access, the BIS certification for foreign manufacturers needs to understand compliance with Indian regulations and standards. As certification demonstrates compliance, international toy manufacturers need to protect their business from potential legal risks. 

Facilitating Market Access

The foreign manufacturer certification scheme allows international toy manufacturers to legally sell their products in Indian markets. The certification signifies adherence to the Indian standard.

A valid certificate increases sales and also boosts credibility. 

Building Trust and Confidence

The toys’ BIS registration in India allows foreign manufacturers to bear the ISI mark on their products. The symbol guarantees to customers that it meets the strict Indian standards with regulations before selling in markets. BIS certification for toys in India limits the importation of harmful or inferior-quality products. Therefore, toy registration for foreign manufacturers is important.

Standardization and Compliance 

BIS certification for international manufacturers serves as a legal method. The registration ensures that international manufacturers comply with the specified Indian standard. It is required to safeguard the children from hazardous items and promote a level playing field. 

Step-by-Step—BIS Certification for Foreign Manufacturers

The Bureau of Indian Standards in India launched the Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme (FMCS). The FMCS BIS certificate mandates for all foreign manufacturers who want to sell their toy items in the Indian markets. With certification, they further get access to use the ISI mark on their items. But, how can they register with BIS to obtain a license for toy manufacturing? The key step for the registration process:

Note: It is required for foreign manufacturers to maintain the bank guarantee and pay marketing fees.

Supported Documents for BIS Certification for Toys

With the application, the foreign applicant needs to attach several important documents. You need to prepare:

• Application Form (Form V): This is the essential form for BIS certification of toys.
• Factory Details: Details of the factory address, equipment, complete layout, and raw materials for toy manufacturing. 
• Identity Proof: The applicant’s identity proof
• Test Reports: In-house testing facilities, information, and equipment. Including the products’ lab testing reports.
• Authorized Signature: Authorization documents for the person signing the application form. 
• Brand Details: The information of the toy’s manufacturing brand, or the trademark certificate of the unit brand name. 
• Authorized Letter: If the application is filled out by the AIR, the authorization letter from the foreign manufacturer is required. 

What are the important aspects?

1. Toys Standard: Before selling or manufacturing the toys in India, they must align with the relevant Indian standard, such as IS 9873 Parts 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, and 9.
2. Separate Application: Determine your toy type, whether it is non-electrical or electrical. According to toy types, you need to submit separate application forms.
3. Manufacturing Premises: If the toy manufacturing premises are located in different locations, you need to obtain a separate BIS certification.
4. Online Application: Foreign manufacturers can make the registration process online through the BIS website.

Final Discussion |  Toys BIS Certification in India

The Foreign Manufacturer Certification Scheme was established for international companies. The international companies that are seeking to build manufacturing units in India can get their products certified and also be allowed to use the ISI mark on their products. To improve efficiency, multinational corporations are required to appoint an authorized Indian representative. Unlock the growth opportunities in India with BIS certification for foreign manufacturing. Get in touch with an expert at Legal Raasta to facilitate the process. 

FAQ| BIS for Toy Manufacturers

1. How to obtain the toy’s BIS license?

Ans. As a foreign manufacturer, you need to appoint an AIR. The AIR will complete the registration process from testing to license approval. 

2. What are the consequences of non-compliance?

Ans. Failure to comply with the BIS toy license may result in possible criminal charges, which can include fines and imprisonment.

3. What is the BIS for a toy manufacturer’s cost?

Ans. The BIS cost depends on the type of toy (e.g., electrical or non-electrical). The application cost is Rs 1,000, and the inspection fees are Rs 7,000. 

4. Is it necessary to obtain a license for soft toys? 

Ans. If soft toys are designed for kids under 14 years old, it is mandatory to obtain a BIS certificate. 

5. What are the regulations regarding quality control for toys?

Ans. Foreign manufacturers are required to adhere to the Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020.