When are origin documents required?

While exporting your goods outside the European Union (EU) many countries require an origin document stating the country from which the products originate. In most cases a Certificate of Origin (CO) is used. This is a non-preferential origin document.

In some cases you could also use a preferential document like a EUR.1 Certificate of A.TR Certificate, for countries with which the European Union has concluded trade agreements. Herewith you are entitled to a reduction of import duties or in some cases even an exemption.

Which documents can we issue for you:

What is the difference between non-preferential and preferential documents?

Non-preferential documents certify that the goods are subject to no preferential treatment. These are the main type of COs that an authority (like the Chamber of Commerce) can issue, they are also referred to as 'Normal' CO.
Preferential documents certify that goods are subject to reduced tariffs or exemptions when they are exported to countries extending these privileges. Preferential documents can be issued for destination countries where a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is in place.

Rules of Origin -how is the origin determined and which proof of origin is used- are different for both document types and are based on different customs regulations. In general you can say preferential rules of origin are subject to extensive additional regulations. These rules of origin might differ depending on the FTA.

The non-preferential Certificate of Origin is usually a requirement, where the preferential document can add a competitive advantage, as it results in less or no duties to be paid. An example of a preferential document for goods exported out of the European Union is a EUR. 1 certificate.

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