ICAI Announces Landmark Reforms to Empower Indian CA Firms globally
Aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of strengthening Indian firms and showcasing India’s professional excellence on the global stage,the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) today announced a landmark set of reforms. ICAI president CA. Charanjot singh Nanda along with Vice-President CA. Prasanna Kumar D briefed the media on the transformative decisions taken by the 447th Council.
A major highlight of the reforms is the Council’s approval of key amendments to the Advertisement Guidelines through the revised Code of Ethics. This long-awaited move opens new possibilities for Indian CA firms, especially emerging and mid-sized practices, to enhance visibility, expand their reach and compete confidently at a global level.
The meaningful step toward building Big Indian Firms,the Council has approved the ICAI (Global Networking) Guidelines,2025,a milestone that unlocks a new era of global partnerships for Indian CA firms.
Thes guidelines provide a structured, obvious and compliant framework for Indian CA firms, domestic networks and ICAI-registered consultancy companies to forge international affiliations and access opportunities across global markets.Thay further empower domestic networks to collaborate with overseas entities across jurisdictions.
The objective is clear: create a level playing field where small and medium Indian CA firms can participate meaningfully in global collaborations. With this framework, Indian firms gain access to shared global knowledge, specialised expertise, advanced tools and technology, and the collective brand strength of international networks.
Together, these reforms equip Indian firms with sharper capabilities, broader global exposure, and considerably enhanced opportunities to scale.
Further to empower the CA Firms, the Council of ICAI at its 447th Meeting approved the revised 13th Edition of the Code of Ethics. The new Code will be applicable from 1.4.2026. The key enhancements include:
- The Council has approved pivotal amendments in the provisions relating to Advertisement and Website Guidelines in the code of Ethics. This marks a major step toward creating an ecosystem where Indian firms can grow, compete, and position themselves on a global scale. The updated Guidelines on Advertisements and Websites will enhance accessibility, improve professional visibility, and align with contemporary global practices.The revisions in the scope of “write-up” of advertisement and other revisions will give greater creative flexibility to members. These revisions collectively enable Chartered accountants to present their professional services in a more effective and modern manner.
In the website guidelines, the Council has proposed greater flexibility by allowing members and firms to use push technology for services that are not exclusive to the CA profession (e.g., consultancy, accounting, etc.). Allowing such non-exclusive services to be promoted through “push mode” enhances visibility, aligns with current digital practices, and provides a level playing field for Chartered Accountants. Further, network firms registered with ICAI will now be permitted to develop and maintain their own websites. This change is expected to significantly enhance the visibility of networks, strengthen collaboration, and facilitate efficient details sharing through digital platforms.
- ICAI has now converged with the 2024 edition of the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) Code of Ethics. This is in line with its commitment to adopt the highest international ethical standards and to ensure that the stringent provisions of auditor independence are implemented.