Certificate of Origin or Declaration of Origin ( C/O, CO or DOO) 

A Certificate of Origin or Declaration of Origin (often abbreviated to C/O, CO or DOO) is a document widely used in international trade transactions which attests that the product listed therein has met certain criteria to be considered as originating in a particular country. A certificate of origin / declaration of origin is generally prepared and completed by the exporter or the manufacturer, and may be subject to official certification by an authorized third party. It is often submitted to a customs authority of the importing country to justify the product's eligibility for entry and/or its entitlement to preferential treatment. Guidelines for issuance of Certificates of Origin by chambers of commerce globally are issued by the International Chamber of Commerce.

Documents that may be required for a CO:
• Digital signature certificate
• Import export code
• Mobile number and email address
• Commercial invoice
• Packing list of Shipment
• Manufacturer exporter declaration
• Product description
• Purchase order from importer

1. Registration:
Exporters or their authorized representatives must first register with an accredited chamber of commerce. Registration is typically done through the chamber’s online platform, where exporters provide essential details about their business and authentication of their credentials.
2. Application Submission:
Upon successful registration, exporters gain access to the chamber’s online system, where they can submit an application for a CO. The application process involves providing comprehensive information about the shipment, including details of the exporter and importer, a detailed description of the goods, the country of origin, and any other relevant information required by the chamber.
3. Verification Process:
The Chamber of Commerce meticulously reviews the submitted application to ensure compliance with relevant international rules and guidelines. This verification process includes confirming the accuracy of the provided information, validating the origin of the goods, and ensuring that all required documentation is in order. Any discrepancies or missing information may prompt further inquiries or requests for clarification from the exporter.
4. Issuance of Electronic CO:
Upon successful verification of the application, the Chamber of Commerce proceeds to issue an electronic Certificate of Origin. This electronic CO typically features a unique identification number and incorporates security elements such as a QR code for enhanced verification and authentication purposes. The electronic format enhances accessibility, security, and ease of transmission compared to traditional paper-based certificates.
5. Verification by Importing Country:
Upon receipt of the goods, the importer or customs authorities in the destination country undertake the crucial step of verifying the authenticity of the CO. This verification process is facilitated through the International Chamber of Commerce’s (ICC) CO verification platform. By entering the unique identification number or scanning the QR code on the CO, importers can confirm its validity and authenticity, ensuring compliance with import regulations and trade agreements.
By adhering to these structured steps, exporters can effectively obtain a Certificate of Origin, ensuring the smooth flow of goods across borders while maintaining compliance with international trade standards and regulations.