- ISI Mark certifies compliance with BIS IS 12330 standard for sulphate resistance in cement.
- Mandatory for manufacturing, importing, and selling Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement(SRPC).
- Ensures durability and safety of structures in sulfate-rich environments like coastal areas.
- Protects against chemical damage caused by sulfate attacks in soil and water.
- Helps businesses meet legal requirements and gain market trust for construction projects.
Introduction
The ISI Mark for Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement (SRPC) signifies the cement manufactured complies and is manufactured in accordance with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) standard IS 12330 which includes quality and durability in sulphate-rich environments. The mark is a legal requirement in India for manufacturers, importers and sellers to assure customer the cement is safe, and durable.
What Is The ISI Mark For Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement and Why Is it Important?
The ISI Mark for Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement is a license by the Bureau of Indian Standards for the Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement to meet the specification that is detailed in IS 12330 regarding sulphate attack resistance. The ISI mark represents a way of demonstrating the cement to be a quality, durable product that has the durability to withstand high sulphate level environmental conditions and is crucial in regard to safety for construction on structures exposed to these particular types of environments.

Who Needs BIS Certification for Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement ?
1. Indian Manufacturers of Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement (SRPC)
If you manufacture SRPC in India for domestic sale, you must obtain ISI Mark certification before distribution.
A cement plant in Andhra Pradesh supplying SRPC for coastal projects had to halt dispatch until their ISI license was renewed—losing supply contracts in the process.
2. Foreign Manufacturers Exporting Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement (SRPC) to India
Overseas cement brands must get BIS ISI certification under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS).
A UAE-based supplier of SRPC for Mumbai’s port expansion had to fly in BIS auditors for a factory inspection before getting approval.
3. Importers and Distributors
If you import SRPC, you are responsible for ensuring it’s ISI-marked and BIS-licensed. Customs will seize non-compliant shipments.
4. EPC Contractors and Infrastructure Firms
Even if you don’t manufacture or import cement, as a contractor, you must procure only ISI-marked SRPC for government projects—tender conditions demand it.
BIS Standards for Cement Products in India
IS Code | Cement Type / Specification |
IS 12330 | Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement |
IS 12600 | Low heat Portland Cement |
IS 1489 (Part 1) | Portland Pozzolana Cement – Part 1 Fly-ash based |
IS 1489 (Part 2) | Portland Pozzolana Cement – Part 2 Calcined clay based |
IS 269 | Ordinary Portland Cement |
IS 3466 | Masonry Cement |
IS 455 | Portland Slag Cement |
IS 6452 | High Alumina Cement for Structural use |
IS 6909 | Super sulphated cement |
IS 8041 | Rapid hardening Portland cement |
IS 8042 | White Portland Cement |
IS 8043 | Hydrophobic Portland Cement |
IS 8229 | Oil well Cement |
IS 16415: 2015 | Composite Cement – Specification |
IS 16993: 2018 | Microfine Ordinary Portland Cement – Specification |
IS 15895: 2018 | High Alumina Refractory Cement |
Step-by-Step Process to Get ISI Mark for Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement (SRPC)
- Application Submission to BIS – Start by applying online on the BIS portal for ISI Mark certification under IS 12330.
- Prepare All Documents – Include details of your manufacturing process, quality control system, and recent lab reports.
- Factory Inspection – BIS officials will visit your plant to check if production meets required standards.
- Sample Testing – Cement samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories for fineness, strength, and other parameters.
- Grant of License – If you pass all checks, BIS issues a license allowing you to use the ISI Mark on your Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement bags.

Benefits of ISI Mark for Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement
- Legal Compliance: Avoid customs seizures, fines, and blacklisting.
- Durability Guarantee: Protects structures from sulfate-related deterioration.
- Market Trust: Enhances brand credibility with contractors and government buyers.
- Government Tenders: Mandatory for PSU and infrastructure bids.
- Faster Clearances: Smooth customs and procurement approvals.
Eligibility Criteria for ISI Mark for SRPC
- Manufacturers Only: BIS licenses go to manufacturers, not traders.
- Product Coverage: Must be listed under IS 12330.
- Operational Factory: Ready for BIS inspection.
- Foreign Brands: Must appoint an Indian Authorised Representative (AIR).
- IS Standard Compliance: Cement must pass BIS lab tests for IS 12330.
Documents Required for ISI Mark Certification for SRPC
- Business Registration Certificate
- Factory Layout, Machinery List, and Process Flow
- Cement technical specifications and safety data sheets
- Test reports from BIS-recognised labs
- Agreement with AIR (for foreign brands)
- Trademark Registration Certificate (if applicable)
- Digital Signature Certificate for online filing
Certification Schemes for SRPC
ISI Mark Scheme (For Domestic Manufacturers)
For Indian manufacturers supplying SRPC in the local market. Requires:
- Factory inspection
- Sample testing in BIS-approved lab
- Ongoing surveillance
FMCS (Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme)
For overseas SRPC producers. Requires:
- BIS officers’ visit to the foreign plant
- Product testing in India
- Annual renewal
Renewal Process for ISI Mark for Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement
The ISI Mark typically has a validity of 1-2 years; before expiry you must renew it. To renew the ISI Mark you need to submit an application online to BIS, along with product samples that BIS will test. BIS could also carry out a factory inspection to ensure that the factory is complying with all of the ISI Mark requirements. After completing the approval process your license will be granted again and you can continue to use the ISI Mark. It is important to renew your registration on time to avoid suspension or cancellation of certification.
Role of Diligence Certifications in ISI Mark Approval
Professional BIS consultants like Diligence Certifications help manufacturers get ISI approval faster by handling documentation, avoiding testing errors, and ensuring full compliance before factory inspections. This saves time, reduces rejection risk, and speeds up market entry for Microfine Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement.
Conclusion
Choosing the ISI Marking under BIS IS 12330 is mandatory isn’t just technical—it’s professional reassurance. Finer grains, certified quality, smoother finishes, and resilient builds define elevated workmanship. Talk to your procurement budget clincher today, specify ISI-marked microfine in your next RFP, and let your projects stand stronger and sleeker. Get in touch to assess your cement sourcing—because your clients deserve craftsmanship that lasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is ISI Mark mandatory for SRPC in India?
Yes, SRPC falls under BIS mandatory certification as per IS 12330.
2. Can I sell imported SRPC without ISI Mark?
No. Customs will detain non-ISI-marked SRPC shipments.
3. How long does certification take?
Domestic ISI licensing: 6–8 weeks. FMCS: 8–12 weeks.
4. Does ISI Mark guarantee sulfate resistance?
Yes, BIS testing ensures compliance with C3A limits and other durability criteria.
5. Can one license cover multiple SRPC grades?
Yes, if all grades meet IS 12330 and are manufactured at the same facility.
Q6. Is it mandatory to get an ISI mark for Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement?
Yes, as per the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) norms, manufacturing or selling Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement without an ISI mark is not permitted in India.
Q7. What tests are conducted for the ISI mark?
In BIS-approved laboratories, tests are carried out for parameters like chemical composition, setting time, compressive strength, soundness, and sulphate resistance.
Q8. What is the validity period of the ISI mark?
It is usually valid for 1 to 2 years, but manufacturers can extend it by submitting a timely renewal application.
Q9. Is the ISI mark required for imported Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement?
Yes, if the cement is to be sold or supplied in India, imported products must also obtain BIS certification and an ISI mark.
Q10. What is the benefit of having an ISI mark for Sulphate Resisting Portland Cement?
It ensures the product meets strict quality and safety standards, builds customer trust, and allows legal sale in the Indian market.