Mandatory BIS ISI certification for sandals and slippers under IS 6721:2023 is now required for all manufacturers and importers in India. Complete compliance guide with process, testing, timelines and expert support.

BIS Certification for Sandals and Slippers: Mandatory Compliance with IS 6721:2023 (QCO 2024)

The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has enforced mandatory BIS certification for sandals and slippers under IS 6721:2023, through the Footwear Made from All Rubber and All Polymeric Material and Its Components (Quality Control) Amendment Order, 2024. Effective 30 August 2024, these products must bear the ISI Mark to be manufactured, imported, or sold in India. This guide provides manufacturers and importers with a complete roadmap to compliance, featuring Standphill India as a trusted BIS certification consultant with proven expertise in footwear regulations.

Introduction: Regulatory Shift in India's Footwear Industry

India's footwear sector has experienced rapid growth, with sandals and slippers becoming essential everyday footwear across households, workplaces, hospitality, healthcare, and travel sectors. However, this growth has also led to increased regulatory oversight. To ensure product quality, safety, and uniform standards, the Government has mandated BIS ISI certification for all sandals and slippers sold in the Indian market.

What Are Sandals and Slippers as per BIS?

Regulatory Classification

Sandals:

• Open-type footwear

• Upper does not fully cover the foot

• Equipped with a back strap or heel support

Slippers:

• Open-type footwear without a back strap

• Designed mainly for indoor, casual, and comfort wear

Common Applications

• Daily household footwear

• Hotels, spas, resorts, and wellness centers

• Travel and tourism

• Beach and leisure activities

• Hospitals and service industries

Why BIS Certification Is Mandatory

Legal Requirement

As per the Gazette Notification dated 30 August 2024, BIS ISI certification is compulsory for:

• Indian manufacturers

• Foreign manufacturers exporting to India

• Importers and distributors

• E-commerce sellers and retail outlets

Non-compliance attracts penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

Consumer Safety Assurance

BIS certification ensures:

• Slip resistance on wet and smooth surfaces

• Safe, non-toxic materials

• Structural durability

• Ergonomic comfort and foot safety

Market & Brand Advantages

• Higher consumer trust

• Eligibility for government and institutional tenders

• Stronger brand credibility

• Reduced product liability risks

Indian Standard Governing Sandals & Slippers

IS 6721:2023 – Technical Overview

IS 6721:2023 defines requirements for:

• Material selection

• Design and construction

• Performance and durability

• Safety and chemical compliance

• Marking and labeling

Key Technical Requirements

Materials Covered:

• Upper: Leather, synthetic leather, textiles, polymers

• Sole: Rubber, PVC, PU, EVA, TPR

• Components: Straps, toe posts, buckles, adhesives

Mandatory Performance Tests:

• Bond strength test

• Abrasion resistance

• Flexing endurance

• Hydrolysis resistance (PU soles)

• Heel pull-off strength

• Slip resistance

• Attachment strength

Chemical & Safety Parameters:

• pH value compliance (leather)

• Color fastness

• Absence of restricted chemicals (AZO dyes, formaldehyde)

• Dimensional stability

Quality Control Order (QCO) – Compliance Timeline

Exemptions Under QCO

• Footwear manufactured exclusively for export

• Certain Micro & Small Enterprises (as per MSMED Act, 2006)

• Export-oriented moulded PVC outsole units (specific conditions apply)

Recent BIS Certification Success – Standphill India

BIS Certification Process

Documents Required

• Factory registration & premises proof

• GST and Udyam certificate

• Process flow chart

• Raw material list & test reports

• Machinery and testing equipment list

• Calibration certificates

• Factory layout and location map

• Trademark certificate (if applicable)

Industry Impact of Mandatory BIS Certification

Manufacturing Sector

• Upgraded production facilities

• Stronger quality control systems

• Standardized testing procedures

Supply Chain

• Improved traceability

• Better raw material compliance

• Streamlined inventory systems

Consumer Market

• Higher awareness of quality standards

• Preference for ISI-marked products

• Reduction in substandard footwear

Strategic Benefits of BIS Certification

• Competitive differentiation

• Access to organized retail and e-commerce platforms

• Reduced regulatory and recall risks

• Improved investor confidence

• Long-term brand sustainability

Why Choose Standphill India?

Your BIS Compliance Partner

Standphill India offers end-to-end BIS certification support for sandals and slippers under IS 6721:2023.

Estimated Timeline & Cost

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Conclusion

Mandatory BIS certification under IS 6721:2023 marks a decisive step toward safer, higher-quality footwear in India. Manufacturers and importers who adopt early compliance will gain market leadership, regulatory security, and long-term growth advantages.

With deep regulatory expertise and proven success, Standphill India is your trusted partner for BIS certification of sandals and slippers, ensuring smooth approvals and sustained compliance.

Need BIS Certification for Your Sandals & Slippers?

Contact Standphill India today for a comprehensive compliance assessment and strategic support to obtain your ISI Mark license.