India Tightens Rules on CCTV Imports: Chinese Brands May Lose Market Access from April 1

India is preparing to enforce stricter regulations on CCTV camera imports, a move that could significantly impact Chinese manufacturers such as Hikvision, Dahua, and TP-Link. Beginning April 1, all CCTV products sold in the country will require mandatory approval under the Standardization Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) framework.

Certification Rule May Act as Market Barrier

Under the new norms, companies must secure STQC certification to continue selling surveillance equipment in India. Industry sources indicate that approvals are reportedly being withheld for Chinese firms and devices using Chinese chipsets. Without certification, these products will not be allowed in the market, effectively restricting their presence.

Security Concerns Drive Policy Shift

The tightening of regulations is linked to growing concerns over data security and surveillance risks. Authorities are focusing on whether foreign-made CCTV systems could enable unauthorized remote access to sensitive footage. As part of the updated rules, manufacturers must disclose the origin of key components—especially system-on-chip (SoC) elements—and submit devices for detailed vulnerability testing.

The transition period for compliance, introduced in April 2024 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, is now coming to an end, making adherence mandatory from April 1.

Indian Brands Gain Strong Ground

Chinese companies previously held a significant share of India’s CCTV market, accounting for nearly one-third of total sales. However, their dominance has declined sharply in recent months.

Domestic manufacturers such as CP Plus, Qubo, Prama, Matrix, and Sparsh have rapidly expanded their presence by shifting to non-Chinese supply chains and strengthening local production. As a result, Indian companies now control over 80 percent of the market, according to industry estimates.

Certification Process Already Underway

More than 500 CCTV models have already been approved under the new certification system, indicating that the framework is operational. Companies that adapted early are expected to benefit, while those dependent on Chinese components may face exclusion once the rules come into full effect.

Strategic and Economic Implications
The move reflects India’s broader strategy to enhance security oversight while promoting domestic manufacturing. By tightening compliance requirements, the government aims to reduce reliance on foreign surveillance technology and encourage the growth of indigenous players in the sector.