In a significant policy intervention aimed at improving raw material access and enabling growth across the textile value chain, the Central Government has withdrawn the Quality Control Order (QCO) for Viscose Staple Fibre (VSF) with immediate effect. The move follows consultations with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and key industry stakeholders, and is widely seen as a response to ongoing concerns about supply limitations and elevated input costs. Officials noted that the decision underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing ease of business for textile manufacturers, exporters and MSMEs.
This latest move follows the government’s earlier withdrawal of QCOs on polyester fibre and yarn, including Ethylene Glycol, Terephthalic Acid, Polyester spun (grey and white) yarns, Polyester Continuous Filament Yarn, Polyester Partially Oriented Yarn and Polyester Industrial Yarn.
The Ministry has said it will continue engaging with stakeholders and prioritising evidence-based policymaking to sustain momentum in domestic manufacturing, exports and employment—reinforcing India’s ambitions to emerge as a leading global textile hub.
The development comes as India drives forward its Vision 2030 for the textile sector, which targets US $ 100 billion in exports, increased domestic consumption and an expansion of the overall textiles and apparel market to US $ 350 billion. The removal of the QCO on VSF is expected to smoothen access to quality raw materials, bolster global competitiveness and support industry-led growth aligned with these national goals.
The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) welcomed the decision. Chairman Ashwin Chandran expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Textiles for rescinding the QCO on VSF, stating that viscose staple fibre and several speciality fibres covered under the order are vital inputs for a wide range of value-added garments and made-ups. He noted that, together with the earlier rollback of QCOs on polyester yarns and fibres, the measure would help resolve price and availability challenges faced by users of these raw materials in the MMF segment, adding that it would significantly enhance the competitiveness of India’s textile and apparel sector.
