Is it Legal to Advertise a Product as “Made in India” if Only Assembly Happens Here?

No, it is generally illegal to label a product as “Made in India” if only assembly occurs domestically without substantial manufacturing or value addition. Such labelling may mislead consumers and violate multiple laws.

Rule 6 of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, mandates clear and accurate declarations of the country of origin. The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, prohibits deceptive trade practices, including false or misleading advertisements.

In Tata Sons Ltd. v. Greenpeace International (2011), the Supreme Court emphasized the significance of truthful commercial speech, recognizing it as a component of Article 19(1)(a).

Therefore, mere assembly does not justify a “Made in India” claim.