ICAI clears amendment to Code of Ethics, allowing advertising by CA firms
New Delhi, December 12, 2025
The revised code of ethics allows greater flexibility in advertising, “write-ups,” and website use, including push notifications for non-exclusive services
As the Government pushes to promote large domestic audit/consulting firms to challenge global giants, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in India (ICAI) has amended 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,” a statement issued by ICAI after the meeting of the apex policy-making body of the ICAI, headed by its President Charanjot Singh Nanda.
According to the statement, the updated Guidelines on Advertisements and Websites will enhance accessibility, improve professional visibility, and align with contemporary global practices. The revisions to the scope of the “write-up” of the advertisement and other revisions will give members greater creative flexibility. These revisions collectively enable Chartered Accountants to deliver their professional services more effectively and in a more modern manner.
Digital Flexibility
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, the statement said.
Stricter Global Ethics
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. Some of these provisions are as follows:
While the provisions on Non-Assurance Services for audit clients are further restricted in accordance with the IESBA Code of Ethics, certain new provisions on the subject impose express prohibitions. Under the new provisions, an audit firm cannot accept an audit engagement for a Public Interest Entity (PIE) if it has previously provided a non-assurance service that could create a self-review threat to the financial statements.
Wider Compliance Net
An important change is the expanded applicability of the provisions on Responding to Non-Compliance with Laws and Regulations (NOCLAR) during audit engagements. “The provisions are now extended to all listed entities and their material subsidiaries, thereby strengthening transparency, accountability, and auditor responsibility in addressing potential non-compliance,” the statement said.
Further, the Council has approved the ICAI (Global Networking) Guidelines, 2025, a milestone that unlocks a new era of global partnerships for Indian CA firms. “These guidelines provide a structured, transparent and compliant framework for Indian CA firms, domestic networks and ICAI-registered consultancy companies to forge international affiliations and access opportunities across global markets. They further empower domestic networks to collaborate with overseas entities across jurisdictions,” the statement added.
[The Hindu Business Line]
