Synopsis
The Indian government has launched the eCoO 2.0 system to streamline the certification process for exporters. This initiative will facilitate trade by enhancing efficiency and turnaround times through user-friendly features such as multi-user access and Aadhaar-based e-signing.Key Takeaways
- Launch of eCoO 2.0 system for exporters.
- Features multi-user access under a single IEC.
- Aadhaar-based e-signing introduced.
- Integrated dashboard for easy access to resources.
- Mandates electronic filing of Non-Preferential Certificates.
New Delhi, Jan 27 (NationPress) The government has taken a significant step to enhance trade efficiency by launching the updated Certificate of Origin (eCoO) 2.0 system, aimed at simplifying the certification process for exporters.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has revealed this improved system, which boasts various user-friendly features, including multi-user access. This allows exporters to authorize multiple users under a single Importer Exporter Code (IEC).
Moreover, the system now offers Aadhaar-based e-signing along with digital signature tokens, providing exporters with greater flexibility.
An integrated dashboard enables exporters to easily access eCoO services, Free Trade Agreement (FTA) information, trade events, and additional resources.
The platform also introduces an in-lieu Certificate of Origin feature, allowing exporters to request amendments to previously issued certificates through a straightforward online application, as stated by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
As of January 1, electronic filing of Non-Preferential Certificates of Origin has been mandated via the eCoO 2.0 platform.
This initiative is designed to facilitate trade by streamlining the certification process and enhancing turnaround times for exporters, thus marking a significant improvement in the overall ease of doing business.
According to the ministry, “The platform handles over 7,000 eCoOs daily, including both preferential and non-preferential certificates, linking 125 issuing agencies, which consist of 110 national and regional chambers of commerce and industry, over 650 issuing officers, and all Indian exporters within one cohesive system.”
The DGFT has also established a procedure for obtaining online Back-to-Back Certificates of Origin (Non-Preferential).
These certificates pertain to goods that are not of Indian origin, intended for re-export, transshipment, or merchanting trade.
Issued based on documentary evidence from the country of origin, the Back-to-Back CoO ensures transparency and accuracy by clearly stating the details of the origin and supporting documents, according to the ministry.
