On April 19, 2023, India's Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC) issued a Notification on the gazaette regarding the delayed implementation of Quality Control Orders (QCOs) for styrene (viny benzene), acrylonitrile, and maleic anhydride. A Corrigendum was published later on May 2 to correct the implementation date for maleic anhydride.
All three chemicals are organic compounds that are used widely in the production of polystyrene, polyester resins, rubbers, synthetic fibers, and other plastic materials. They are important building blocks for a wide range of products and play a significant role in the chemical and manufacturing industries.
The latest implementation date is set out for the 3 chemicals as follows:
| Goods or Articles | Title of Indian Standard | Implementation date |
| Styrene (Vinyl Benzene) | IS 4105:2020 Specification for Styrene (Vinyl Benzene) | April 24, 2024 |
| Acrylonitrile | IS 12540:1988 Specification for Acrylonitrile | April 24, 2024 |
| Maleic Anhydride | IS 5149:2020 Specification for Maleic Anhydride, Technical | October 24, 2024 |
The QCOs do not apply to chemicals for export only. The chemical products conforming to the requirements of the Orders shall bear the Standard Mark under the Grant of License by the Bureau of Indian Standards. Any person who contravenes the provisions of the Orders shall be punished according to the Bureau of Indian Standards Act (BIS Act), 2016.
