Cement
White Portland Cement
Strategic Recommendations for White Portland Cement – IS 8042
- Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Apply for BIS certification under IS 8042 before manufacturing or import. Conduct tests for whiteness index, compressive strength, and setting time in BIS-recognized labs. - Partner with Compliance Experts
Collaborate with ERA compliance specialists for certification documentation, product testing, and ISI marking guidance. - Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
Get assistance for BIS licensing, exemption processing, and product conformity checks. - Track Notifications & Circulars
Subscribe to ERA Newsletter for updates on Cement QCO 2003, BIS amendments, and regulatory changes. - Do a Gap Assessment
Compare your product specifications with IS 8042:2015 requirements for color uniformity, strength, and chemical composition to ensure compliance before certification.

Section | Details |
---|---|
Product Name | White Portland Cement |
IS Standard | IS 8042:2015 |
Title of IS | Specification for White Portland Cement |
Quality Control Order | Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 |
Notification & Amendments | Notified via S.O. 191(E) dated 17 February 2003 |
Final Enforcement Date | 17 February 2003 |
Objective & Scope | To regulate the quality and safety of White Portland Cement in India by ensuring it meets BIS standards and carries the ISI Mark for architectural, decorative, and specialized construction applications. |
Products Covered | White Portland Cement manufactured with low iron oxide raw materials and fine grinding, primarily used in terrazzo flooring, precast panels, decorative tiles, facades, sculptures, swimming pools, and aesthetic concrete works. |
Exemptions | Cement manufactured exclusively for export with Central Government approval. - Temporary exemption up to 150 days for manufacturers awaiting BIS license post-application. |
Industries Impacted | Cement manufacturers, importers, dealers, decorative construction industry, real estate developers, precast tile and panel producers, architects and interior designers. |
Mandatory Compliance | - BIS certification under Scheme-I mandatory. - ISI mark must be printed on all packaging. - Conformance to IS 8042:2015 physical, chemical & colorimetric parameters. - Testing only in BIS-recognized labs. - Maintenance of batch test reports and production records. |
Next Steps for Stakeholders | Manufacturers and importers must secure BIS license. Dealers should stock only ISI-marked cement. Architects and contractors must verify compliance before procurement. Exporters must seek exemptions if products are meant for overseas markets. |
Legal Framework & Enforcement | Enforced under BIS Act, 2016 with inspection and seizure powers to designated officers. Provisions of CrPC, 1973 apply for search and seizure. |
Penalties for Non-Compliance | - Fine not less than ₹2,00,000, extendable up to 10× the product value. - Imprisonment up to 2 years. - Continuing offence: ₹50,000 daily fine. - Suspension or cancellation of BIS license. - Confiscation or destruction of non-standard cement stock. |
Conclusion | White Portland Cement (IS 8042:2015) is regulated under the Cement QCO, 2003. BIS certification ensures reliability, color consistency, and quality for decorative and architectural applications. |
References / Annexures | - Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003 – S.O. 191(E) - IS 8042:2015 Standard - BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018 (Scheme-I) |
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Notification
White Portland Cement is brought under regulation through the Cement (Quality Control) Order, 2003, notified via S.O. 191(E), dated 17 February 2003, issued by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry under the BIS Act, 1986 (now under BIS Act, 2016).
Enforcement Timeline
The notification became effective from 17 February 2003, making BIS certification and ISI marking mandatory for the manufacture, import, sale, and distribution of White Portland Cement in India.
Overview
White Portland Cement, covered under IS 8042:2015, is distinct from Ordinary Portland Cement due to its low iron oxide content, controlled kiln conditions, and bright white finish. It is mainly used for decorative and architectural purposes where appearance and color uniformity are critical.
Objective & Scope
The regulation ensures only BIS-certified White Portland Cement enters the Indian market, promoting quality, consumer confidence, and durability in decorative construction projects.
Products Covered
White Portland Cement specially manufactured for:
- Terrazzo flooring and precast decorative tiles
- Architectural facades and sculptures
- Swimming pool interiors and wall finishes
- Colored mortars, plasters, and floorings
Exemptions Provided
- Cement manufactured solely for export, subject to prior approval.
- Temporary exemption (up to 150 days) for new license applicants awaiting BIS approval.
Industries Impacted
Cement manufacturers, importers, decorative construction material suppliers, precast concrete producers, builders, real estate companies, and interior design industries.
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
- BIS certification under Scheme-I is compulsory.
- ISI mark must be carried on all packaging and documentation.
- Testing to be conducted only in BIS-recognized laboratories.
- Records of batches and quality tests must be preserved.
Next Steps for Stakeholders
Manufacturers and importers must apply for BIS certification prior to sale. Distributors and dealers should stock only ISI-marked cement. Architects and contractors must verify compliance during procurement. Exporters must obtain exemption approval for international consignments.
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
The order is enforced under the BIS Act, 2016, with inspection and seizure powers to designated officers. Non-compliance attracts strict penalties, including:
- Fine not less than ₹2,00,000, extendable up to ten times the value of goods.
- Imprisonment up to 2 years.
- Continuing offence: fine of ₹50,000 per day.
- Suspension or cancellation of BIS license.
- Seizure and disposal of non-conforming material.
Conclusion
White Portland Cement (IS 8042:2015) is regulated under the Cement QCO, 2003. BIS certification ensures its safe, reliable, and consistent use in aesthetic and architectural construction projects, protecting both end-users and industry stakeholders.
Ready to start your certification journey?
Let us help you navigate regulatory challenges and achieve certification with ease. Leave us your details, and we’ll get back to you—or request a free consultation today.