The Indian furniture market has witnessed a significant transformation in recent years. Driven by rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a surge in demand for smart and modular furniture, India is now one of the fastest-growing furniture markets in the Asia-Pacific region. However, with growing consumer expectations around quality and safety, market access is no longer just about great design or affordability. Increasingly, manufacturers and importers must also meet mandatory regulatory standards—and this is where BIS certification plays a crucial role.

What is BIS Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is India’s national standards body responsible for ensuring product safety, quality, and compliance with Indian norms. BIS certification acts as a seal of trust, confirming that a product meets the defined Indian Standard (IS). For manufacturers in the furniture segment, BIS certification is no longer optional for certain products—it is now mandatory under the Quality Control Orders (QCOs) issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

The Role of BIS in the Furniture Sector

To improve consumer safety and promote domestic manufacturing, the Indian government has introduced compulsory BIS certification for various categories of furniture, including school and office furniture, plastic chairs, and more recently, wooden furniture items. This move is aligned with India’s broader policy goals under “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) and “Make in India.”

With BIS certification becoming mandatory for these products, it is now a prerequisite for manufacturing, distribution, and import in India. This means that non-certified furniture cannot be legally sold in the Indian market. Manufacturers who ignore or delay certification risk facing penalties, product recalls, and legal action.

IS 17635:2022 and the Future of Wooden Furniture Standards

One of the key standards introduced in recent years is IS 17635:2022, which sets the quality and performance benchmarks for wooden chairs and other household seating furniture. It outlines requirements for dimensions, stability, strength, durability, finish, and safety. By enforcing this standard, the Indian government aims to eliminate substandard products from the market and enhance the competitiveness of Indian furniture in global trade.

Through this standard, manufacturers must ensure that their wooden furniture complies with stringent testing protocols before being certified. This includes load tests, structural stability, surface finish evaluations, and toxic chemical compliance, among others.

Agile Regulatory: Your Partner in IS 17635 Certification

Navigating the BIS certification process can be a complex journey, especially for small and medium furniture manufacturers. This is where Agile Regulatory steps in. With years of experience in handling BIS approvals, Agile Regulatory simplifies the process for businesses aiming to certify products under IS 17635. From preparing documentation and coordinating with BIS officials to facilitating lab testing and ensuring compliance with all mandatory technical requirements, Agile Regulatory offers end-to-end support to help manufacturers obtain the ISI mark without delay. Their client-focused approach ensures that even first-time applicants can unlock market access smoothly, efficiently, and with confidence.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Furniture Brands

Securing BIS certification doesn’t just satisfy regulatory requirements—it offers multiple business advantages:

• Increased Credibility: The BIS mark enhances brand reputation and consumer trust.

• Market Access: It allows manufacturers to legally sell products across India.

• Export Opportunities: BIS-certified products are often preferred in international markets due to their verified quality.

• Competitive Edge: Companies with certified products stand apart from unorganized sector players.

• Reduced Risk: Certified furniture is less likely to face complaints, returns, or safety incidents.

Conclusion

In an industry where quality and trust drive consumer decisions, BIS certification has become an indispensable asset for furniture manufacturers in India. With the government tightening regulations under QCOs and standards like IS 17635, companies that invest in compliance today are positioning themselves for long-term growth and wider market access.

Agile Regulatory stands as a reliable partner in this journey—helping furniture brands achieve BIS certification and elevate their place in the Indian and global market.