India Bans Chinese CCTVs from April 1

New certification rules target Hikvision, Dahua to bolster national security and boost local makers in $7 bn market

India will ban sales of Chinese-made internet-connected CCTV cameras from April 1, 2026, over national security fears. The move hits giants like Hikvision and Dahua Technology hardest. Officials aim to curb data leak risks in critical infrastructure.

Key Changes Ahead

From tomorrow, manufacturers must secure STQC certification under Essential Requirements norms notified in April 2024. Devices without approval cannot enter the market. Sources say 507 models have cleared tests so far.

Internet-enabled surveillance gear for airports, government offices and transport hubs faces the tightest scrutiny. Companies must disclose chip origins and prove no remote access vulnerabilities.

Security Risks Exposed

Authorities flagged backdoor threats in Chinese devices. Reports indicate potential unauthorised control and data flows to foreign servers. This endangers sensitive networks, as per MeitY officials.

The rules mandate lab-tested security features. Non-compliant gear gets blocked at borders or retail points.

Market Shift Underway

India's surveillance sector, worth $5-7.5 billion, booms with smart cities and urban expansion. Chinese firms once grabbed a third via cheap pricing. Now, local players like CP Plus and Prama dominate over 80% share.

They switched to Taiwanese chips and homegrown software. Global brands Bosch and Honeywell hold premium slots.

Official Word

MeitY sources confirmed the deadline. "Critical infrastructure demands trusted tech," one official told reporters. STQC labs verified compliant models after two-year grace period.

No extensions planned, as per reports.

Business Impact

Businesses face short supply hiccups and price hikes initially. Consumers may pay 10-15% more for certified options. Long-term, domestic output rises, stabilising costs.

Private firms seek clarity on commercial applicability beyond government tenders.

Global Context

Hikvision and Dahua draw heat worldwide for similar risks. US, UK agencies banned them earlier. India's step aligns with digital sovereignty push amid Latest News Today on border tensions.

This strengthens India News Update against foreign surveillance threats.

Road Ahead

Local makers gear up for full market control. Government eyes incentives for R&D. Watch for compliance filings and import data next week.