SAFTA License

Overview

SAFTA, the South Asian Free Trade Area, allows preferential tariff treatment on goods traded among member countries of the region. To claim these preferential rates, an exporter needs a Certificate of Origin under SAFTA that confirms the goods qualify under the agreement's origin rules. In India, preferential certificates of origin are issued by authorised agencies such as the Export Inspection Council and its Export Inspection Agencies. The certificate accompanies the export consignment for use by customs in the importing country.

Objective

To obtain a preferential Certificate of Origin under SAFTA so eligible goods can claim reduced tariffs in member countries.

Characteristics

• A preferential Certificate of Origin under the SAFTA agreement
• Confirms goods meet the agreement's rules of origin
• Issued in India by authorised agencies such as the Export Inspection Council
• Used by importing country customs to apply preferential tariffs
• Issued on a per-consignment basis

Eligibility

• Exporters shipping eligible goods to SAFTA member countries
• Holders of a valid Import Export Code
• Goods that satisfy the SAFTA rules of origin
• Businesses registered with the issuing agency

Governing law

• South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) Agreement
• Export Inspection Council of India
• Export Inspection Agencies
• Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT)

The process

1. 1
   Check origin criteria

   Confirm that the goods meet the SAFTA rules of origin for the destination country.

2. 2
   Register with the agency

   Register the exporter and product details with the authorised issuing agency.

3. 3
   Prepare export documents

   Compile the invoice, packing list, and details supporting the origin claim.

4. 4
   Apply for the certificate

   Submit the application for the preferential Certificate of Origin for the consignment.

5. 5
   Certificate issued

   The agency verifies the details and issues the Certificate of Origin for the shipment.

Documents required

• Import Export Code certificate
• Commercial invoice and packing list
• Details supporting the origin of goods
• Product and manufacturing information
• Exporter registration details with the issuing agency

Benefits

• Access to preferential tariffs in SAFTA member countries
• Documented proof that goods meet regional origin rules
• Smoother customs treatment in the importing country
• Improved competitiveness in regional markets
• A recognised certificate accepted under the agreement

Frequently asked questions