India to block sale of Chinese CCTV cameras from April 1 under new security rules.
Photo Credit: Pexels
India will restrict the sale of Chinese internet-connected CCTV cameras from April 1 under new STQC rules, affecting major brands and pushing up prices for certain segments. Existing users won’t be affected immediately but may face software and security issues over time.
In a major step towards bolstering national security and cutting dependence on foreign tech, the Indian government has decided to effectively stop the sale of Chinese-made internet-connected CCTV cameras and related hardware across the country.
As a result, big Chinese surveillance brands like Hikvision, Dahua, and TP-Link will no longer be able to sell their internet-connected CCTV products in India starting April 1.
As per a report in The Economic Times, officials are now refusing to grant certification to any hardware that uses Chinese-origin chipsets or firmware under the new Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) rules.
This essentially locks major Chinese surveillance companies -- along with other global brands that rely heavily on Chinese components -- out of India’s fast-growing security and surveillance market.
As per the report, Hikvision has tried to stay in the market by forming a joint venture with an Indian partner. On the other hand, Dahua's business in India has shrunk by almost 80 percent, and the company is now limited to selling only older analog cameras.
Meanwhile, brands such as Realme and Xiaomi have pulled out of the smart home camera segment in India after failing to meet the new STQC certification requirements.
It is worth noting that cameras from these brands that are already installed and owned by users will not be taken away or banned. However, these users may face issues in the future regarding software updates and cybersecurity.
The report states that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) rules are aimed at fixing critical vulnerabilities that could allow hackers to gain remote access to these cameras.
With this move, CCTV cameras are likely to get more expensive, especially mid-range and high-end models, as the shift away from cheap Chinese components has pushed up manufacturing costs by 15–20 percent. However, entry-level cameras may not see a big price increase for now, as major domestic players have managed to keep those prices relatively stable.
Why is India banning the sale of Chinese CCTV cameras?
India is banning the sale of Chinese CCTV cameras to enhance national security by reducing dependence on foreign technology. The move aims to prevent cybersecurity risks associated with Chinese-origin chipsets and firmware, which could allow hackers remote access.
Which Chinese CCTV brands are affected by the ban in India?
Major Chinese surveillance brands such as Hikvision, Dahua, and TP-Link are impacted by the ban. These brands will no longer be allowed to sell internet-connected CCTV products in India from April 1, 2026.
Are existing Chinese CCTV cameras already installed in India going to be removed?
No, the existing Chinese CCTV cameras installed in India will not be removed or banned. However, users might face difficulties regarding future software updates and cybersecurity protections.
How will the ban affect the pricing of CCTV cameras in India?
The ban is expected to increase manufacturing costs by 15–20 percent due to the shift from cheap Chinese components. This will likely cause mid-range and high-end CCTV cameras to become more expensive, while entry-level models may remain relatively stable.
What alternatives do Indian consumers have after the Chinese CCTV camera ban?
Indian consumers will have to rely on domestic CCTV camera brands or other non-Chinese global brands that comply with the Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) rules set by India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
What is the role of STQC certification in this ban?
The STQC rules prohibit granting certification to hardware that uses Chinese-origin chipsets or firmware. This certification process effectively blocks Chinese and some global brands reliant on Chinese components from the Indian market.
How have companies like Hikvision and Dahua responded to the ban?
Hikvision has attempted to continue in India by forming a joint venture with an Indian partner. Dahua's business has shrunk by about 80 percent and is limited to selling older analog cameras that are not internet-connected.
What security risks does the ban aim to address?
The ban targets vulnerabilities in Chinese surveillance technology that could enable hackers to gain remote access. It seeks to protect Indian networks and infrastructure from potential cyber threats linked to foreign-made CCTV hardware and software.
At marvelof.com, we spotlight the latest trends and products to keep you informed and inspired. Our coverage is editorial, not an endorsement to purchase. If you choose to shop through links in this article, whether on Amazon, Flipkart, or Myntra, marvelof.com may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.