India’s JSW Motors, part of the JSW Group led by billionaire Sajjan Jindal, has warned that its planned first car launch could be delayed unless New Delhi speeds up approvals to import automotive parts from China, according to a letter seen by Reuters.
The company, which is investing about $3 billion in making hybrid and electric vehicles in the western state of Maharashtra, had hoped to roll out its first model in the second half of 2026 using imported components while building up a local supplier base.
However, JSW says delays in obtaining import licences for key parts such as safety glass, required under India’s quality control rules, are threatening that timeline. The letter, dated December 18, was sent to India’s industries ministry urging faster certification for Chinese suppliers after an “exhaustive exploration” of alternative sources.
India’s quality control rules, introduced in 2020 to curb low‑quality imports, particularly from China, can take several months to complete and raise costs for overseas companies. Analysts say the scrutiny reflects deeper concerns about China‑linked imports and investment amid tense political ties after the 2020 border clashes.
JSW told Reuters it is also considering alternative suppliers in Germany and Vietnam, but sourcing from those markets would likely increase production costs and car prices. The industries ministry and JSW did not respond to requests for comment.
JSW is also in talks with China’s Chery Automobile about a potential technology partnership to build vehicles locally, and it holds a stake in SAIC Motor’s India venture, now called JSW MG Motor India, a unit that has struggled under India’s restrictions on Chinese investment.