There have been certain instances where benefits of preferential tariffs under Free Trade Agreements (FTA) were not granted to goods imported from Sri Lanka, despite the availability of such benefits. This denial is based on the argument that the Certificate of Origin is presented in electronic format rather than a hard copy. To address this matter, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has provided clarification.
CBIC has clarified vide Instruction No. 15/2023- Customs dated 03rd May, 2023, that an electronic Certificate of Origin, known as e-CoO, issued by the designated Issuing Authority of Sri Lanka, is considered a valid document for claiming preferential benefits under the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (FTA). However, to be deemed valid, the e-CoO must adhere to certain conditions. It should be issued in the prescribed format, bear the seal and signatures of the authorized signatory from the Issuing Authority, and fulfill all other requirements as stated in Notification No. 19/2000-Customs (N.T.) dated 01.03.2000.
This clarification ensures that the benefits of preferential tariffs are granted appropriately, even when the Certificate of Origin is in electronic form.
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