Electronic Filing and Issuance of Preferential Certificate of Origin under India-UK CETA

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Dated: 14.07.2026

Electronic Filing and Issuance of Preferential Certificate of Origin under India-UK CETA

The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) introduces a streamlined, fully electronic process for obtaining Preferential Certificates of Origin (CoO) for exports to the UK, effective July 15, 2026. This article provides a detailed overview of the new procedures, requirements, and benefits for exporters and stakeholders.

Introduction to the India-UK CETA eCoO System

With the implementation of CETA, exporters can now apply for and receive Preferential Certificates of Origin electronically via the Trade Connect ePlatform (www.trade.gov.in). This unified digital platform simplifies the application and issuance process, ensuring faster, more secure, and transparent trade documentation.

Modes of Issuance: Self-Declaration and Authorised Agency

Exporters have two options for obtaining an electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO):

Self-Declaration
- Exporters can generate eCoO themselves, provided they meet specific digital requirements.
- The process is entirely online, requiring no fee.
Authorised Agency Issuance
- Exporters may apply through designated agencies, which review and approve applications before issuing the eCoO.

Step-by-Step Guide: Self-Declaration Based eCoO

Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) Requirement
- Applicants must have a valid DSC linked to their Importer Exporter Code (IEC) profile.
Uploading Scanned Signature
- A scanned copy of the applicant’s ink-signed signature must be uploaded during the application process.
Application Submission
- Select “India UK CETA (Self-Declaration)” as the agreement name.
- Complete the application form and submit using DSC or Aadhaar authentication.
- No fee is required.
Branch and Jurisdiction Selection
- Choose the relevant branch address from IEC details; the system auto-maps the jurisdictional authority for verification if needed.
Approval and Generation
- After submission, the application status is “Auto Approved Pending Issuance.”
- Click “Generate Self-Declared CoO” to produce the certificate.
- The system prompts for signature upload if not already provided.
Certificate Copies
- Two copies are generated, both with QR code and digital signature:
  - Electronic Copy: Includes scanned signature, ready for digital use.
  - Physical Copy: Space provided for manual signature after printing.
- Submit the appropriate copy to UK authorities as required.

Step-by-Step Guide: Agency-Issued eCoO

Application Process
- Select “India-UK CETA (Agency Issued)” as the agreement name.
- Choose from the list of authorised agencies.
Approval and Issuance
- Upon agency approval, an electronic copy with QR code, digital signature, issuing officer’s signature image, and agency stamp is generated.
- Download and use as required for export documentation.

Common Guidelines for All Applicants

Login Credentials: Use existing DGFT website credentials for the Trade Connect ePlatform; no new registration needed.
Multiple Users: Additional user accounts for the same IEC can be created and linked via DSC.
Digital Signature Management: Ensure the name in the user profile matches the DSC exactly. Refer to the DGFT website for help on linking DSC to IEC.
IEC Details: Keep IEC information updated in the DGFT system for seamless application processing.

Verification Mechanism

Authorities can verify the authenticity of any CoO by visiting the Trade Connect ePlatform, navigating to the Certificate of Origin section, and entering the CoO number. The system will display the certificate details for verification.

Related Article

Implementation of Self-Certification of Origin Declarations under the India-UK CETA

Conclusion

The electronic issuance of Preferential Certificates of Origin under the India-UK CETA marks a significant advancement in trade facilitation. By leveraging digital tools, exporters benefit from greater efficiency, security, and compliance in cross-border trade documentation.

In case you face any issues related to Indirect Tax-Customs, GST, Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Arbitration matters and Central Licensing and related advisory matters in India then please feel free to get in touch with SJ EXIM Services.

We offer Legal advice and litigation support in matters related to Indirect Tax-Customs, FTP, other Indirect Tax matters & Arbitration law, all sorts of Central licensing and related matters. Come and explore the new way of doing business with us!

Source: DGFT

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