Certificate of Origin (COO)

A Certificate of Origin (COO) is an essential trade document that certifies that goods exported from India are wholly obtained, manufactured, or processed in India. It helps importers avail tariff benefits, trade agreements, and customs clearance in the destination country.

📌 Issued By: Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), Chambers of Commerce, DGFT, FIEO, and other authorized agencies
📌 Regulated By: Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India
📌 Validity: Typically valid for one shipment
📌 Required For: Customs clearance, trade agreements, and preferential duty benefits

Types of Certificate of Origin (COO)

1. Preferential Certificate of Origin (PCO)

✅ For Goods Exported Under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs), or Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs)
✅ Allows exporters to avail reduced or zero customs duties in importing countries.
✅ Issued for exports under trade agreements such as:

Agreement Type

Example

Countries Covered

Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

India-UAE CEPA

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)

India-Japan CEPA

Japan

Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA)

SAFTA (South Asian Free Trade Agreement)

SAARC countries (Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Afghanistan, Pakistan)

Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)

India-GSP

USA, Russia, Australia, Canada

Asia-Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA)

India-APTA

China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, South Korea

📌 Where to Apply: DGFT portal or authorized Export Promotion Councils (Apply here)

2. Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin (NPCO)

✅ Used when there is no trade agreement between India and the importing country.
✅ Required for customs clearance, proof of origin, and trade compliance.
✅ Does not provide tariff benefits but ensures smoother customs clearance.

📌 Issued By:

• Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO)

• Chambers of Commerce (e.g., CII, ASSOCHAM, PHDCCI, ICCI, FICCI)

• Export Promotion Councils (EPCs)

How to Apply for a Certificate of Origin (COO)?

1. Online Application (Preferred Method)

📌 Portal: DGFT’s Common Digital Platform
📌 Steps to Apply:
1️⃣ Login to DGFT COO Portal (or apply through EPC/FIEO portals).
2️⃣ Upload required documents (Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Manufacturing Proof).
3️⃣ Select issuing authority (EPC, DGFT, Chamber of Commerce).
4️⃣ Pay applicable fees (Varies by issuing body).
5️⃣ Download the COO after approval.

2. Offline Application (Manual Submission)

📌 Steps to Apply:
1️⃣ Visit the issuing authority (EPC, Chamber of Commerce, DGFT office).
2️⃣ Submit required documents (Invoice, Packing List, Manufacturing Proof, Export Contract).
3️⃣ Pay the processing fee.
4️⃣ Collect the stamped COO certificate.

Documents Required for COO Application

📜 Commercial Invoice – Proof of transaction.
📜 Packing List – Details of shipped goods.
📜 Bill of Lading / Airway Bill – Transport document.
📜 Import Export Code (IEC) – Issued by DGFT.
📜 GST Registration Certificate – Tax compliance proof.
📜 Manufacturing Process Declaration – Proof that goods were produced in India.

Benefits of a Certificate of Origin

✅ Customs Clearance – Ensures smooth processing at ports.
✅ Reduced or Zero Import Duties – If exported under FTAs/PTAs.
✅ Trade Agreement Compliance – Facilitates international trade.
✅ Trust & Credibility – Confirms the authenticity of Indian-made goods.