The numbers
The Indian government will enforce a total ban on the sale of non-certified internet-connected CCTV cameras from Chinese manufacturers starting April 1, 2026. This move comes as a significant blow to companies like Hikvision and Dahua, which collectively held one-third of the Indian market until 2024.
Under the new Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) rules, the government has refused to certify products made in China or those using Chinese chipsets. As of February 2026, Indian companies now control over 80% of the CCTV market, a dramatic shift from previous years.
CP Plus, a domestic player, has seen its market share surge to 45-50%, up from just 20-25% before the regulations were introduced. Meanwhile, Dahua’s business has contracted by 80%, now limited to selling obsolete analog cameras.
The shift away from Chinese suppliers has not come without costs. The bill of materials (BoM) for new installations has risen by 15-20%, reflecting the increased expenses associated with sourcing from local manufacturers.
Despite these changes, existing installations of affected CCTV systems are not expected to face immediate disruption. A senior executive at a domestic electronics firm noted, “The compliance requirements are stringent, particularly around disclosure of components and software integrity.” This indicates a robust framework for ensuring the quality and security of surveillance equipment.
Industry analysts suggest that this policy has accelerated the shift towards indigenous manufacturing. “This policy has accelerated the shift towards indigenous manufacturing,” one analyst stated, highlighting the growing momentum behind local production.
Chinese brands previously held a significant share of India’s CCTV market, but the landscape is rapidly evolving. As the ban approaches, observers are keenly watching how the market will adapt and whether local manufacturers can fully meet the demand.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term implications of this ban on consumer prices and the overall security landscape in India. However, the government’s stance signals a clear intent to bolster domestic industries while reducing reliance on foreign technology.
