Trade Notice No. 13/2025-2026, Dated 30-09-2025
1. Introduction
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has announced a significant step towards digital trade facilitation by introducing electronic filing and issuance of Preferential Certificates of Origin (eCOO) under the India–European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (India–EFTA TEPA). Effective from October 1, 2025, this system will apply to exports made to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The initiative is designed to streamline export documentation, enhance transparency, and simplify compliance for Indian exporters.
2. Availability on Trade Connect ePlatform
The eCOO will be issued through the DGFT’s Trade Connect ePlatform, ensuring centralized access and digital convenience. Exporters can choose between two modes: issuance through self-declaration or issuance by authorised agencies. Both electronic and physical copies of the eCOO will be available, each embedded with QR codes and digital signatures to ensure authenticity and verifiability.
3. Process for Self-Declaration eCOO
For self-declaration eCOOs, exporters must meet certain prerequisites, including a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) linked to their Importer Exporter Code (IEC). Exporters will also need to upload scanned signatures, select the relevant agreement, and specify branch details. Applications are submitted at zero cost and are automatically mapped to the jurisdictional regional authority or SEZ. Once approved, exporters can generate both electronic and physical versions of the certificate instantly.
4. Process for Agency-Issued eCOO
Exporters who prefer agency support may apply through authorised agencies designated by the DGFT. In this case, the certificate is electronically generated, bearing the signature of the issuing officer and the official stamp of the agency. This dual issuance model allows exporters flexibility while ensuring compliance with TEPA requirements. Importantly, both versions—self-declared and agency-issued—carry the same validity and recognition under the agreement.
5. Conclusion
In conclusion, the launch of eCOO issuance under the India–EFTA TEPA represents a major digital reform in India’s trade facilitation framework. By allowing exporters to seamlessly file applications online, ensuring secure authentication through QR codes, and providing easy verification via the platform’s “Verify Certificate” feature, DGFT has reduced paperwork and improved efficiency. With support channels such as the dedicated helpdesk, exporters are better equipped to leverage preferential tariff benefits while boosting India’s trade engagement with EFTA nations.
