In today’s fast-paced global trade environment, trust and transparency are more critical than ever. As part of its digital trade reforms, India has introduced a major upgrade in how exporters certify their goods’ origin — replacing the outdated “Proof of Origin” with a robust, paperless, and verifiable “Certificate of Origin” (CoO) system.
Whether you’re an Indian exporter or a global importer, understanding this shift will help you move faster, stay compliant, and build more secure supply chains.
📜 What Was the Old System?
Previously, exporters had to collect physical Certificates of Origin from chambers of commerce or export councils. These documents served as the “proof” that goods were genuinely made in India and helped importers claim preferential duty benefits under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
However, the system had its flaws:
- Paper-based applications and long approval times
- Risk of misuse or forgery
- No real-time verification
- Fragmented processes across different trade agreements
🔁 What’s New?
India has now shifted to a fully digital Certificate of Origin system managed through a central government portal: 🔗 https://coo.dgft.gov.in
Here’s what changed:
| Old System | New System |
| Manual, paper-based certificates | Digital e-Certificates with QR code |
| Different formats for each FTA | One platform for all FTAs |
| Verification by phone/email | Online, real-time verification |
| Only one type of origin proof | Accepts either Certificate OR self-declaration (if allowed by FTA) |
🛠️ How Exporters Can Get Started
If you’re an exporter, here’s how to transition:
- Get/Update your IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
- Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- Register at https://coo.dgft.gov.in
- Apply for CoO online – choose the FTA, enter invoice details, and upload your documents
- Download your digitally signed Certificate and send it to your buyer
No more couriering papers. No more delays.
🎯 Why Was This Change Introduced?
India’s government made this shift for several key reasons:
- ✅ Prevent misuse of FTAs by stopping fake or third-country origin claims
- ✅ Comply with global norms under the WTO and modern FTAs
- ✅ Speed up trade through automation and paperless systems
- ✅ Improve buyer confidence with real-time verification
This change is aligned with international best practices and is supported by the Customs (Administration of Rules of Origin under Trade Agreements) Rules (CAROTAR), amended in 2025 to broaden the definition of “proof.”
🌍 Why This Matters to Global Buyers & Importers
Importers around the world who source from India will find this update highly beneficial:
| Your Concern | Solved By India’s Digital CoO System |
| Authenticity of origin certificates | 🔐 Digital CoOs are verifiable with QR codes |
| Delays in receiving documents | 🚚 Exporters can download CoOs instantly |
| Lost or forged paperwork | 💾 Secure PDF copies, stored and retrievable online |
| Doubts during customs clearance | 📊 Transparent digital trail + real-time verification |
| Want to claim FTA tariff benefits | ✅ Clean proof of Indian origin for duty exemptions |
💡 The Bigger Picture
This change reflects a broader trend in global trade — moving from manual, paper-heavy systems to fast, digital, and traceable ecosystems.
For Indian exporters, it means:
- Quicker documentation
- Easier compliance
- More global competitiveness
For global buyers, it brings:
- Confidence in sourcing
- Faster shipments
- Transparent documentation
🤝 How V Global Supports You
At V Global, we help Indian exporters and global buyers navigate these trade transformations with ease. Whether you’re:
- New to FTAs
- Unsure about CoO rules
- Looking for verified suppliers
- Or want to simplify your sourcing process from India…
We’re here to help.
🎯 Exporters: Get trained on using the DGFT platform🎯 Importers: Verify your suppliers and reduce risks
📩 Need a step-by-step guide or one-on-one support? Send us a message or book a 20-minute consultation with our team.
Let’s make global trade smoother, safer, and smarter — together.
