India’s JSW Motors, the automotive unit of the JSW Group, has warned that the planned launch of its first car could be delayed due to slow approvals for importing critical parts from China, according to a letter to the Indian government reviewed by Reuters.
JSW Motors is investing roughly $3 billion to establish a manufacturing base for hybrid and electric vehicles in the state of Maharashtra. The company has been targeting a second-half 2026 debut for its initial model, but that timeline now appears at risk amid regulatory hurdles for parts imports.
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Regulatory Bottlenecks Hit Production Plans
In the December 18, 2025, letter to India’s Ministry of Industries, JSW urged officials to expedite certifications required under India’s quality control rules before it can begin importing certain components from China.
The hold-up is especially acute for safety glass, including windshields and sunroofs, which JSW says domestic suppliers cannot readily provide.
These quality control rules, tightened in 2020 to curb low-quality imports – particularly from China – now demand detailed compliance checks and approvals before components may enter India. JSW argued that these delays could undermine its ability to stick to its planned mid-year roll-out.
To mitigate the impact, JSW is exploring alternative suppliers from Germany and Vietnam. However, these options are expected to be more expensive and could push up the eventual car’s price tag.
India’s Trade Rules and China’s Supply Chain
Broader Trade Context
JSW’s concerns underscore ongoing tensions in India-China trade relations. Relations between the two countries soured after a border clash in 2020, prompting New Delhi to tighten scrutiny of imports and investment from China. These dynamics have complicated supply chains for several industries, including automotive and electronics.
Despite these tensions, JSW continues to collaborate with Chinese firms, including a stake in SAIC Motor’s Indian venture and potential technology partnerships with Chery Automobile. These ties signal the company’s intent to leverage global expertise even as regulatory challenges mount.
What’s at Stake
If parts import certifications are not issued promptly, JSW’s ambitious plan to make a splash in the competitive Indian auto market – particularly in the growing electric vehicle segment – may be slowed, affecting investment timelines and supply chain strategies.
