New STQC certification norms could restrict Chinese surveillance firms from selling internet-connected cameras in India without mandatory approval.
India is reportedly set to restrict Chinese video surveillance companies such as Hikvision, Dahua, and TP-Link from selling internet-connected CCTV cameras and related equipment starting April 1. The move comes as new certification requirements under the Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) framework become mandatory for all such products.
According to a report by The Economic Times, citing industry executives, the government is tightening security norms for connected devices. Authorities are reportedly withholding certification for products from these companies, as well as devices powered by Chinese-origin chipsets. Without STQC approval, these products will not be allowed to be sold in the Indian market.
The decision is expected to significantly impact Chinese brands, which until recently held a substantial share of India’s CCTV market. As of last year, they accounted for nearly one-third of total sales. However, the market has seen a rapid shift, with domestic manufacturers stepping in to fill the gap.
Indian brands gain ground
Indian companies such as CP Plus, Qubo, Prama, Matrix, and Sparsh have expanded their presence, focusing on non-Chinese components and localised firmware. According to Counterpoint Research, domestic players now command over 80 per cent of the market as of February, while global brands like Bosch and Honeywell continue to dominate the premium segment.
What are the new rules?
The updated regulations stem from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s (MeitY) Essential Requirements (ER) norms introduced in April 2024. These rules require manufacturers to disclose the origin of key components, including System-on-Chip (SoC), and ensure devices are tested for potential security vulnerabilities, such as unauthorised remote access.
Manufacturers were given a two-year transition period to comply with the new norms. So far, over 500 CCTV models have already received certification under the revised framework.
