Introduction & Meaning of Certificate of Origin:
Certificate Of Origin (COO) is one useful document in Import-Export Trade. This certificate indicates that the goods, which are being exported, are actually manufactured in a specific country mentioned therein. This certificate is sent by the exporter to the importer and is useful for claming special concession, if any on the import duty charged. This certificate needs to be produced before the customs authorities for the assessment of duty and clearance of goods with concessional duty. An importer secures the benefit of Preferential tariff (if available) by producing the certificate of origin to customs authorities.

When imports from certain countries are favourably treated in the matter of levy of import duties, the Customs Authorities of concerned country insist on some proof of the fact that the goods are genuine products of such countries. For this, a certificate of origin is sent to the importer by the exporter. As the very name indicates, it is a certificate indicating the fact that the goods, which are being exported, have originate / manufactured in a particular country. It is a sort of declaration testifying the origin of exports. It is mainly useful for taking advantage of a preferential duty, if available. It also ensures that banned articles do not go to the importing country. Finally, the certificate of origin ensures that the goods have not been re-shipped by the exporter after importing from some other country.

In India, the Chambers of Commerce, Export Promotion Councils and various Trade Associations, which have been authorized by the Government, issue the certificate of origin. The Central Silk Board, the Coir Board, Textile Committee are also authorized to issue such certificates for the products under the preview. This certificate has to be dully legalised by presenting it to the Consul of the importing country stationed in the exporting country.

Roll of Indian Merchants’ Chamber:
Indian Merchants’ Chamber is one of Chambers of Commerce, are authorised by the Government of India, for issue the Certificate of Origin (Non Preferential) to Exporter, since 1926. It has special Department for issuing the Certificate of Origin and attestation of export related documents and issuing Visa Recommendation Letters to Member of IMC for Commercial visit purpose. The Department is totally dedicated for Attestation and Issuance of Certificate of Origin, with 7 to 8 Staff persons during working hours. Within one hour exporter can avail the Certificate of Origin after submitting relevant documents.