India Bans Chinese CCTV Cameras

India has implemented a ban on the sale of internet-connected CCTV cameras from several Chinese manufacturers, including Hikvision, Dahua Technology, and TP-Link, effective April 1, 2026. This move, driven by the India — Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology's Essential Requirements introduced in April 2024, aims to bolster national security, reduce reliance on foreign surveillance technology, and prevent potential cyber threats and unauthorized remote access. The regulations mandate strict certification under the Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) regime, requiring manufacturers to disclose the country of origin for critical components like System-on-Chip and undergo rigorous cybersecurity evaluations. The ban has already reshaped India's CCTV market, with domestic brands like CP Plus and Qubo now dominating over 80% of sales, up from a third previously held by Chinese brands. US-based brands such as Bosch (company) and Honeywell have captured the high-end market. The shift is expected to cause temporary supply shortages and a slight increase in CCTV camera prices due to reduced competition and rising compliance costs, but it is also intended to foster local production and strengthen India's indigenous surveillance technology ecosystem.