New DPIIT amendment allows eligible manufacturers to import specified hermetic compressors until March 31, 2027, while maintaining Quality Control Order compliance and localization commitments.

New Delhi, India – July 16, 2026

The Government of India has announced a significant regulatory update for manufacturers operating in the air-conditioning and refrigeration sector by introducing a temporary import relaxation for specified hermetic compressors under the amended Quality Control Order (QCO) framework.

Issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) through the Air Conditioner and its Related Parts, Hermetic Compressor and Temperature Sensing Controls (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2026, the amendment permits eligible manufacturers to continue importing defined categories of hermetic compressors within prescribed limits until 31 March 2027. The measure is intended to support manufacturing continuity while encouraging long-term localization initiatives.

The relaxation applies only to manufacturers importing compressors for their own production activities and does not extend to traders, distributors, or importers involved in resale. Import quantities are linked to each manufacturer's import volumes during the financial year 2024–25, ensuring that the relaxation remains controlled and compliance-driven.

According to the amendment, eligible categories include reciprocating, rotary, scroll, inverter, and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) hermetic compressors used in refrigeration, air-conditioning, and heat pump applications. Different import ceilings have been prescribed depending on the compressor category, with manufacturers required to maintain monthly import records and submit indigenization plans to the Government.

Industry observers note that the amendment is expected to reduce short-term supply chain disruptions for manufacturers that rely on imported compressor technologies while reinforcing India's broader objective of strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities. Importantly, the amendment does not remove existing BIS or QCO compliance requirements. Instead, it offers a time-bound relaxation under defined regulatory conditions, allowing businesses additional time to transition toward localized production.

Supporting Information

Manufacturers involved in the production of air conditioners, refrigeration equipment, commercial cooling systems, heat pumps, and VRF systems may be directly affected by this regulatory change. Businesses intending to utilize the relaxation should carefully review the eligibility criteria, import quantity limits, documentation requirements, and reporting obligations before planning future imports.

The amendment reflects the Government's effort to balance uninterrupted industrial production with its long-term "Make in India" and localization objectives. Companies benefiting from the relaxation are expected to maintain transparent import records while progressively increasing domestic sourcing of critical components.

Website Reference

For complete information, detailed compliance requirements, and guidance on the latest Hermetic Compressor QCO Amendment 2026, readers can visit:

https://www.ssglobalservices.in/news-updates/government-relaxes-hermetic-compressor-import-under-qco-2026

About the Organisation

SS Global Services is an Indian regulatory compliance consultancy providing guidance on BIS Certification, Quality Control Orders (QCO), EPR Registration, TEC Certification, WPC Approval, CDSCO Registration, LMPC, and other statutory approvals for manufacturers, importers, exporters, and brand owners operating in India.