India Bans Chinese CCTV: A Major Shift in Surveillance Technology
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 decisive action comes as a response to growing security concerns and aims to bolster local manufacturing capabilities.
Historically, Chinese brands like Hikvision and Dahua collectively held one-third of the Indian market until 2024. However, recent regulations have shifted the landscape dramatically, with Indian companies now controlling over 80% of the market as of February 2026. CP Plus, one of the leading domestic brands, has seen its market share surge to 45-50%, a significant increase from the 20-25% it commanded before the new regulations were implemented.
The government’s refusal to certify products made in China or those utilizing Chinese chipsets under the new Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) rules has left companies like Dahua in a precarious position, with its business contracting by 80%. The company is now limited to selling obsolete analog cameras, a stark contrast to its previous dominance.
As the market adapts to these changes, the shift away from Chinese suppliers has not come without its challenges. Industry insiders report a 15-20% rise in the bill of materials (BoM), indicating increased costs for manufacturers and consumers alike. Despite these hurdles, the compliance requirements set forth by the government are seen as a necessary step towards ensuring the integrity of surveillance technology.
A senior executive at a domestic electronics firm noted, “The compliance requirements are stringent, particularly around disclosure of components and software integrity.” This sentiment reflects a broader industry trend towards transparency and accountability, which has become increasingly important in the wake of security concerns surrounding foreign technology.
Industry analysts suggest that this policy has accelerated the shift towards indigenous manufacturing, further solidifying India’s position in the global technology landscape. As local companies ramp up production to meet the growing demand for certified CCTV systems, the long-term implications of this ban could reshape the surveillance market for years to come.
Existing installations of affected CCTV systems are not expected to face immediate disruption, allowing businesses and consumers to adjust gradually to the new regulations. However, as the deadline approaches, the full impact of this ban on the market dynamics and consumer behavior remains to be seen. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how this will affect ongoing contracts and future procurement strategies for public and private entities alike.
