Unlocking Benefits: Key Demands from MSMEs to the Bureau of Indian Standards

Understanding MSME Challenges

MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) companies are pushing for a streamlined approach to comply with standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). During a recent Round Table Conference, industry representatives stressed the importance of clarity and fairness in regulations. They believe that better regulatory structures will help MSMEs grow, increasing competition, quality, and exports.

One major concern is the confusion surrounding BIS certification. Many MSME owners worry that the existing regulations do not adequately consider items produced or imported before new standards came into effect, making it hard to sell older stock. Additionally, the BIS portal lacks user-friendly features to help businesses easily navigate certification requirements, which creates further obstacles for small enterprises.

The India SME Forum has launched a “Seller Shiksha Abhiyan” to tackle these issues. This initiative, in collaboration with Amazon, focuses on crucial areas like Quality Control Orders (QCO) and BIS certification. Amit Nanda, a director at Amazon India, emphasized the need for close partnerships with sellers to build customer trust and promote growth.

According to Vinod Kumar, president of the India SME Forum, fostering strong relationships between vendors and regulators is essential for MSMEs to thrive in the digital economy. By providing the right support and knowledge, these businesses can better meet regulatory demands.

Expert Insight

Experts believe that enhancing regulatory clarity could significantly boost MSME growth. Recent statistics suggest that MSMEs contribute nearly 30% to India’s GDP and create about 110 million jobs. However, many struggle with compliance, leading to potential revenue loss. Simplifying the certification process could help unlock further potential in this vital sector.

Overall, supporting MSMEs will not only help them navigate current challenges but also strengthen the backbone of the Indian economy.

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