DGFT Enables Exporters to Self-Issue Certificates of Origin under India-EFTA TEPA [Public Notice]
DGFT has allowed exporters to self-certify Certificates of Origin under the India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)
India-EFTA TEPA
India-EFTA TEPA
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, has issued Public Notice No. 24/2025-26 dated 28 October 2025, announcing amendments to the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) 2023.
The changes officially incorporate the India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (India-EFTA TEPA) into India’s trade policy framework and simplify the procedure for obtaining Certificates of Origin (CoO).
Key Amendments
Addition in Para 2.88(a):
- A new entry (number xiv) has been added to the list of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) under HBP.
- The new entry is “India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (India-EFTA TEPA)”
This means the India–EFTA TEPA has now been officially recognized as part of India’s list of Free Trade Agreements.
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Addition in Para 2.91:
- A new clause 2.91(e) has been inserted.
- It states that for the India-EFTA TEPA, Certificates of Origin (CoO) can be obtained either by self-declaration by the exporter or through an authorised agency.
In simpler terms, exporters can now self-declare the origin of their goods under this trade agreement instead of always having to get the certificate from a designated agency.
The Certificate of Origin is a key document that certifies that exported goods are of Indian origin, enabling importers in partner countries to avail reduced tariffs or duty benefits under trade agreements. DGFT has simplified export documentation and reduced procedural delays by allowing self-certification, aligning India’s trade practices with global standards.
This policy move is expected to encourage more exporters to take advantage of the India–EFTA TEPA and enhance India’s export competitiveness in European markets.
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