CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN (CO)
A Certificate of Origin (CO) is an official document issued by an authorized body in the exporting country to certify the place where the goods are manufactured. In international trade, it serves as a key reference for customs authorities to determine tariff rates, apply trade policies (such as anti-dumping or import quotas), and grant preferential treatment under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
Main Functions of a Certificate of Origin
Tariff Preferences – A CO allows exporters to benefit from reduced or zero tariffs under FTAs or the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), such as FORM A, FORM E, etc.
Customs Clearance – Some countries require a CO as a mandatory document for import clearance.
Trade Statistics – Helps importing countries track the source of their imports.
Anti-dumping & Compliance – Proves that goods are not from restricted or sanctioned origins.
Common Types of Certificates of Origin
General Certificate of Origin (CO)
Certifies the country of origin.
Does not provide tariff benefits.
Issued by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) or customs authorities.
GSP Certificate of Origin (FORM A)
Grants preferential tariffs when exporting to developed economies (e.g., EU, Japan).
Note: Many countries have withdrawn GSP benefits for China.
Regional Preferential Certificates
FORM E: For China–ASEAN Free Trade Agreement.
FORM F: For China–Chile Free Trade Agreement.
China–Korea, China–Australia COs: Applicable for tariff reduction with these countries.
Special Purpose Certificates
For specific goods, such as a Certificate of Authenticity for Tobacco.
Application Process (China Example)
Eligibility: Exporters must register with customs or CCPIT.
Required Documents:
Commercial invoice & packing list
Manufacturer’s details
Proof of raw material origin (for tariff preference cases)
Issuing Authorities:
Customs (via the “Single Window” online system).
CCPIT (mainly for general COs).
Digitalization: China has fully rolled out electronic Certificates of Origin (e-CO), allowing online application, verification, and printing.
Key Points to Note
Accuracy: Information must match the bill of lading and invoices exactly to avoid clearance delays.
Timing: Apply 3–5 days before shipment to ensure readiness.
FTA Utilization: Select the right CO type depending on the destination country (e.g., FORM E for ASEAN exports).
Policy Updates: Some regions no longer accept certain COs (e.g., the EU stopped accepting FORM A for China in 2021).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can goods be exported without a CO?
A: Yes, if the importing country does not require it or tariff preference is not needed. However, some regions (e.g., Middle East, South America) make it mandatory.
Q: Can a CO be reissued after shipment?
A: Yes, but the process is more complex and requires additional documents (e.g., explanation letter, original B/L).
Q: Are third-party documents accepted?
A: In some cases, yes. For example, if the Letter of Credit (L/C) specifies “third-party documents acceptable,” but this must be confirmed in advance.
If you need tailored advice, simply provide your target market or trade scenario, and we can recommend the most suitable type of Certificate of Origin for your shipment.