ICAI advertising reforms and global networking rules cleared to strengthen domestic firms
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has cleared a wide-ranging set of regulatory reforms designed to reinforce domestic chartered accountancy firms. The measures include a relaxation of long-standing advertising norms and the introduction of a structured framework to enable international collaborations.
Addressing the media after the 447th Council meeting, ICAI President CA Charanjot Singh Nanda said the decisions reflect evolving market dynamics and professional needs. “These changes update the regulatory architecture and offer greater certainty to firms navigating a rapidly transforming business environment,” he said. ICAI Vice President CA Prasanna Kumar D was also present during the briefing.
Advertising Norms Liberalised After Years
The Council approved amendments to the Advertisement and Website Guidelines under the revised 13th edition of the Code of Ethics, which will take effect from April 1, 2026. The revised rules allow a wider range of advertising formats, enhanced descriptive content, and the use of push notifications for non-exclusive services such as consultancy and accounting.
In a key change, ICAI-registered network firms will now be allowed to operate their own websites, a move expected to improve outreach, branding, and coordination within professional networks.
According to Nanda, these revisions align existing norms with contemporary digital practices and provide firms with greater flexibility to communicate their services.
Framework for International Networking and Partnerships
Among the most significant decisions was the approval of the ICAI (Global Networking) Guidelines, 2025. These guidelines establish a formal mechanism for Indian firms, domestic networks, and ICAI-registered consulting entities to collaborate with overseas firms.
ICAI said the framework is aimed at empowering mid-sized and growing firms by facilitating access to global expertise, technology, and cross-border opportunities, while ensuring transparency through defined disclosure and compliance requirements.
Adoption of Updated Global Ethical Standards
The Council also adopted the 2024 Code of Ethics issued by the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA), introducing stricter norms on auditor independence.
Notable provisions include restrictions on audit firms undertaking Public Interest Entity (PIE) audits if they have rendered conflicting non-assurance services, expanded applicability of Non-Compliance with Laws and Regulations (NOCLAR) requirements to all listed entities and their key subsidiaries, and the inclusion of ethical standards for sustainability assurance engagements.
Additionally, the list of permitted Management Consultancy and Other Services has been widened to cover emerging areas such as artificial intelligence-related work, forensic accounting, and social-impact evaluations. The Council also recommended that audit fees be received only through banking or digital modes.
UDIN Milestone Achieved
ICAI said the issuance of Unique Document Identification Numbers (UDINs) crossed the 10-crore mark during the year, calling it a significant milestone in strengthening document authentication and professional transparency.
WOFA 2.0 Scheduled for 2026
The Institute further announced that the second edition of the World Forum of Accountants (WOFA 2.0) will be held from January 30 to February 1, 2026, at the India Expo Centre in Greater Noida. The event is expected to attract over 20,000 participants from more than 40 countries.