BIS studies phased mandatory silver hallmarking as voluntary volumes nearly double

Bureau of Indian Standards is evaluating frameworks for compulsory silver hallmarking, currently voluntary with HUID since September 2025. Hallmarked articles climbed to 59 lakh in FY26 from 32 lakh in FY25 across 230 recognised assaying centres, signalling regulatory tightening ahead for jewellery retailers.

— Source publishedThu, 4 Jun, 2026, 14:08 IST·First seen Thu, 4 Jun, 2026, 14:21 IST·Source ET Small Business

What happened

BIS is studying frameworks for phased mandatory silver hallmarking, currently voluntary with HUID since Sept 2025. Hallmarked articles rose to 59 lakh in FY26

Key facts

  • 59 lakh articles hallmarked FY26
  • 32 lakh FY25
  • 230 AHCs
  • 5 BIS staff
  • voluntary since 2005
  • HUID from Sept 2025

Why this matters

Pre-mandate window opens M&A optics on regional silver jewellers lacking HUID infrastructure—target distressed unorganized players before compliance costs force fire-sale valuations.