The problem of input–output stability analysis and stabilisation of discrete Takagi–Sugeno (T–S) fuzzy systems with a time-varying delay via an input–output (I–O) approach is investigated in this paper. Using a three-term approximation-based model, a forward subsystem with three constant delays and a feedback subsystem are presented. Two separate input–output stability criteria have been formulated, using an input–output approach and a scaled small gain theorem: a criterion based on the lifting method, a non-quadratic Lyapunov function, and bounded real lemma, another criterion based on a non-quadratic Lyapunov–krasovskii functional approach. Using this result, the input–output stabilisation problem is resolved through the so-called parallel distributed compensation (PDC) scheme. The conditions obtained are presented in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Three numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the advantages and merit of the proposed method.