The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has announced a key amendment to India’s Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, authorizing new agencies to issue Certificates of Origin (CoO) under the India–EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA). This move aims to streamline export documentation and enhance ease of doing business for Indian exporters engaged with European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries — Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
Key Highlights
According to the latest DGFT notification, several Export Promotion Councils and Chambers of Commerce have now been empowered to issue preferential Certificates of Origin under the TEPA framework. This expansion of authorized agencies ensures faster certification, reduces procedural delays, and increases accessibility for exporters across India.
The amendment also clarifies that these agencies must follow the Common Digital Platform for Certificate of Origin (CoO), enabling online application, approval, and verification. This digital system aims to minimize paperwork, curb fraudulent certification, and improve transparency in trade documentation.
Officials stated that the step will significantly support exporters in availing preferential tariff benefits when trading with EFTA nations, strengthening India’s participation in high-value European markets.
Trade and Economic Impact
The inclusion of more authorized agencies underlines the government’s commitment to simplify export procedures and promote trade diversification. By reducing certification bottlenecks, Indian exporters can now process their documentation more efficiently, ensuring timely shipments and competitive pricing in global markets.
India Advocacy Insight
The DGFT’s policy amendment represents a progressive shift toward digital trade facilitation and institutional empowerment. Exporters are advised to verify the updated list of authorized agencies and adopt the online CoO system for seamless compliance. This reform reinforces India’s strategic intent to strengthen bilateral trade relations under the India–EFTA TEPA, boosting the nation’s export competitiveness and policy transparency.
