DGFT Launches Online Certificate Of Origin Facility For India-UK CETA Exporters

New Delhi, Jul 16 (KNN) The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has activated the online facility for exporters to apply for the Preferential Certificate of Origin (PCoO) under the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) through the Trade Connect portal.

Online PCoO Facility Goes Live Under India-UK CETA

The facility became operational with the implementation of the India-UK CETA on July 15, 2026, enabling exporters to obtain the certificate required to claim preferential tariff benefits in the UK market.

According to DGFT, the electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO) will be available through the 'Certificate of Origin' service on the Trade Connect platform and can be issued either through self-declaration or by an authorised agency, as provided under the agreement.

Self-Declaration Process Simplified

For self-declaration-based certificates, exporters must have a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) linked to their Import Export Code (IEC) and upload a scanned copy of their ink-signed signature. Applications can be submitted using either a DSC or Aadhaar authentication without any fee.

After submission, applications will be automatically approved pending issuance, following which exporters can generate the self-declared eCoO. The system will provide both an electronic copy with a digital signature and QR code, and a printable physical copy requiring the applicant's signature.

Authorised Agencies Can Also Issue Certificates

For certificates issued through authorised agencies, exporters must select the designated agency while submitting the application. Once approved, the system will generate a digitally signed electronic certificate bearing the issuing officer's signature and the agency's official stamp.

DGFT Advises Exporters To Update Credentials

DGFT has advised exporters to use their existing DGFT login credentials to access the Trade Connect portal and ensure that their IEC details, user profiles, and linked digital signatures are updated to facilitate seamless processing of applications.

(KNN Bureau)