常用术语

Did you know? In 2023, Indian exporters secured 2.8 million certificates of origin, which helped them save a whopping ₹15,000 crores thanks to various free trade agreements and preferential trade arrangements.



Types and Issuing Authorities

India offers different types of certificates, including non-preferential ones for general trade and preferential ones for benefits under free trade agreements like SAFTA and the ASEAN-India FTA. There are also specialized certificates, such as Form A for GSP benefits. The authorized bodies that issue these certificates include the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the Associated Chambers of Commerce (ASSOCHAM), and various Export Promotion Councils for specific products.

Documentation Requirements and Process

To apply for a certificate, exporters need to provide detailed descriptions of their products, manufacturing information, copies of invoices, and other documents that prove the goods are of Indian origin. The processing time usually ranges from 1 to 3 working days, with fees varying between ₹200 and ₹1,500, depending on the type of certificate and the issuing authority. Freight forwarding companies often help with obtaining these certificates as part of their export documentation services, ensuring everything is accurate and issued on time.

Benefits and Compliance Impact

Having valid certificates of origin allows exporters to benefit from reduced import duties under preferential trade agreements, which can lead to savings of 5-25% on duties in the destination countries. This advantage is especially important for price-sensitive exports like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automotive parts. However, it’s vital to strictly adhere to origin rules and documentation requirements to avoid any duty recovery actions or penalties from customs authorities in the destination countries.