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Dated: 14.07.2026

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

The India-United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (India-UK CETA) marks a significant milestone in trade relations between the two countries. Effective from 15 July 2026, this agreement introduces a streamlined process for claiming preferential tariffs on goods traded between India and the UK, focusing on trust-based compliance and digital facilitation.

Key Highlights of the India-UK CETA Origin Declaration Framework

1. Self-Certification System

• Exporters or producers in the United Kingdom can now self-certify the origin of their goods using an “Origin Declaration” instead of obtaining certificates from designated authorities.
• The declaration must be completed as per Rule 16 and in the format prescribed in Annexure-B of the Customs Tariff Rules, 2026.
• The exporter or producer certifies that the goods qualify as originating and that all information provided is accurate.

2. Authentication Process

• To ensure the authenticity of Origin Declarations, a robust authentication framework has been established between Indian and UK customs authorities.
• UK Customs shares authentication data of exporters/producers with India’s Directorate General of Systems and Data Management.
• The Origin Declaration is authenticated against this data, and a Unique Reference Number (URN) is generated upon successful verification.

3. Submission and Communication Protocol

• The UK exporter or producer must send the completed Origin Declaration to both the designated CBIC nodal email (cbic.customs.indiaukceta@CBIClndia.onmicrosoft.com) and the Indian importer’s ICEGATE-registered email address.
• After authentication, the URN is emailed to both parties. The Indian importer uses this URN to claim preferential tariff treatment in the Bill of Entry.
• Importers must ensure their ICEGATE-registered email is current and shared with their UK counterparts.

4. Validity and Usage of Origin Declarations

• Each Origin Declaration is valid for 12 months from the date of completion.
• It applies to a single shipment only. However, if goods are warehoused, the same URN can be used for multiple ex-bond clearances related to the original warehousing Bill of Entry, provided all conditions are met and within the validity period.

5. Transitional Provisions for Goods in Transit or Warehoused

• Preferential tariff treatment can be claimed for goods arriving in India on or after 15 July 2026, or those still under customs control as of that date.
• If goods were warehoused before the agreement came into force, the Origin Declaration and authentication can be completed after 15 July 2026, and the URN used in the ex-bond Bill of Entry.

6. Data Protection and Use

• All information exchanged for authentication is strictly for customs and origin determination purposes and is protected against unauthorized access or misuse.

Step-by-Step Guide for Importers and Exporters

1. UK Exporter/Producer:
   • Complete the Origin Declaration as per prescribed rules.
   • Email the declaration to the CBIC nodal address and the Indian importer’s ICEGATE-registered email.
2. Authentication:
   • Indian customs authenticate the declaration using data from UK authorities.
   • A URN is generated and sent to both exporter/producer and importer.
3. Indian Importer:
   • Use the URN in the Bill of Entry to claim preferential tariff treatment.
   • Ensure the ICEGATE-registered email is up to date and shared with the UK partner.

Related Articles

India – UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

New Export Flexibility: Self-Declaration for Certificates of Origin under India-UK CETA

Amendment of Appendix 2B: New Agencies Authorized for Certificates of Origin under India-UK CETA

The Rules of Origin under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)

India-UK CETA: New Tariff Rate Quotas for Passenger and Goods Vehicles

Practical Scenarios

• Single Shipment: Each Origin Declaration is for one shipment. For warehoused goods, the same URN can be used for multiple clearances if linked to the original warehousing Bill of Entry and within the validity period.
• Goods in Transit: Goods arriving or under customs control as of 15 July 2026 can still benefit from preferential tariffs if the Origin Declaration is completed and authenticated after the agreement’s commencement.

Additional Resources

A detailed trade advisory, including step-by-step procedures and case studies, will be available on the ICEGATE portal to assist stakeholders in navigating the new system.

The India-UK CETA’s self-certification and authentication framework is designed to simplify trade, enhance compliance, and ensure the integrity of preferential tariff claims, fostering stronger economic ties between India and the United Kingdom.

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: CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India

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