Certificate of Origin (CO) Bangladesh: The Ultimate Guide for Exporters
Navigate the complete process of obtaining your Certificate of Origin in Bangladesh. This guide covers the document checklist, application steps, and legal requirements for 2025.
Understanding the Certificate of Origin (CO)
A Certificate of Origin (CO) is an indispensable international trade document for Bangladeshi exporters. It formally declares that the goods in your export shipment were wholly obtained, produced, manufactured, or processed in Bangladesh. This certification is vital for customs authorities in the importing country, as it helps them determine the applicable tariff rates, assess admissibility under trade agreements, and enforce import regulations.
Key Types of CO Issued in Bangladesh
1. Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin
Often called an "Ordinary CO," this is the most common type. It certifies the country of origin but does not grant the goods any special tariff advantages. Its primary purpose is to meet the customs requirements of the importing country. These are almost exclusively issued by authorized Chambers of Commerce.
2. Preferential Certificate of Origin
This certificate is a powerful tool for exporters. It allows goods to receive tariff concessions (reduced or zero duties) under specific trade agreements. To qualify, products must meet strict "Rules of Origin" criteria. These are issued by designated government bodies, most notably the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), for agreements like GSP, SAFTA, and APTA.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtain Your Certificate of Origin
The application process for a CO in Bangladesh is systematic. While minor details can differ between the Export Promotion Bureau and various Chambers of Commerce, the fundamental procedure is standardized. This timeline outlines the critical stages to successfully secure your certificate.
Step 1: Meticulous Document Preparation
The foundation of a successful application is accurate and complete documentation. Gather every required document from the checklist, including the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill, and proof of origin. Double-check all details for consistency.
Step 2: Correctly Fill the Application Form
Download or collect the appropriate CO application form from your selected issuing authority (e.g., EPB for GSP, or DCCI for an ordinary CO). Fill it out with precise information that perfectly matches your supporting export documents.
Step 3: Submission of Application and Fee Payment
Submit the completed application form along with the full set of supporting documents at the authority's designated service desk. You will be required to pay the standard processing fees at this stage. Keep the payment receipt for your records.
Step 4: Official Verification and Scrutiny
An officer at the issuing authority will meticulously review your application and documents. They will verify the information against their records and the rules of origin. If any discrepancy is found, you may be asked for clarification or additional paperwork.
Step 5: Collection of the Issued Certificate of Origin
Upon successful verification, the authority will print, stamp, and sign the official Certificate of Origin. You will be notified to collect the original certificate, which you must then send to your importer for customs clearance procedures.
Complete Document Checklist for CO Application
Preparing your documents correctly is the most crucial step to avoid delays. Below is a comprehensive checklist of documents typically required for a Certificate of Origin application in Bangladesh. Click each item to see more details.
Legal Framework & Official Government Links
Governing Rules and Regulations
The process is not arbitrary; it's governed by a clear legal framework. Understanding these laws is key for compliance. The main legal references for CO in Bangladesh are:
- The Customs Act, 1969: This is the cornerstone legislation that empowers customs officials to demand and verify a Certificate of Origin to assess duties and taxes correctly.
- Import Policy Order & Export Policy Order: Published by the Ministry of Commerce, these documents set the high-level policy for all import-export activities and formally mandate the requirement of a CO for specific goods and destinations.
- Statutory Regulatory Orders (SROs): For preferential exports, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) issues specific SROs. These are highly detailed legal instruments that define the precise "Rules of Origin" criteria a product must meet to qualify for benefits under a specific trade agreement (e.g., SAFTA Rules of Origin).
Official Websites for Exporters
For the most up-to-date information, application forms, and fee schedules, always refer directly to the official sources. Bookmark these essential government websites:
Need Help Obtaining Your Certificate of Origin?
The process of getting a Certificate of Origin can be complex and time-consuming. Any errors in documentation or procedure can lead to costly delays, customs penalties, or even rejection of your export shipment. LegalSeba LLP offers expert, end-to-end assistance to streamline the entire process. We ensure your application is accurate, complete, and processed efficiently, saving you time and preventing potential losses.
Our Services Include:
Document Review
We meticulously check all your export documents for accuracy and compliance.
Application Filing
We handle the complete application process with the correct issuing authority (EPB or Chamber).
Fast Follow-up
We proactively liaise with the authorities to ensure a smooth and timely issuance of your CO.