DGFT Amends Export Council for Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has updated the name and contact details of the authorised Export Promotion Council responsible for issuing Non-Preferential Certificates of Origin (CoO).
This change is crucial for Indian exporters, as the Non-Preferential CoO is a mandatory document to prove origin of goods when exporting to countries where India does not have a trade agreement or FTA.
Let’s break down what this change means, why it matters, and how you can stay compliant.
What is a Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin?
A Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) is issued to certify that the exported goods are of Indian origin. Unlike Preferential CoOs, it does not offer tariff benefits but is required by certain importing countries for customs clearance.
DGFT’s Recent Amendment – Key Highlights
| Field | Before | After (Updated) |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) | Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) |
| Address | SEPC Office, New Delhi | IIFT Bhawan, B-21, Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi – 110016 |
| Contact | Notified under earlier circular | Email: headcoo@iift.ac.in Phone: 011-39147200 |
📌 Update as per DGFT Trade Notice No. 07/2025-26 dated 12th June 2025.
Why This Change Matters to Exporters
- Avoid application rejection: Submitting CoO to the wrong body may delay exports.
- Stay compliant: Customs authorities in destination countries require accurate documentation.
- Ease of communication: The new contact details ensure timely support and verification.
Steps to Apply for Non-Preferential CoO Under New Authority
- Visit the DGFT CoO portal
- Log in with your IEC and credentials
- Choose issuing authority as Indian Institute of Foreign Trade
- Upload necessary documents (invoice, packing list, declaration)
- Track status and download signed certificate upon approval
Legal Basis and Notification Reference
- This change is notified under Trade Notice No. 07/2025-26
- Issued by: DGFT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- Date: 12.06.2025
- Authority: In exercise of powers under Para 2.92 of the Foreign Trade Policy 2023
🔗 Read the official DGFT Trade Notice
Expert View: Be Export-Ready
“Keeping track of DGFT notifications is critical for exporters. Incorrect documentation can halt shipments and create compliance issues. It’s advisable to always cross-check issuing authorities before submitting Certificate of Origin applications.”
— Export Consultant, Efiletax Advisory Panel
FAQs
Q1: Is IIFT now the only council for issuing Non-Preferential CoO?
No. Multiple bodies are authorised based on product categories. This change applies to the category handled earlier by SEPC.
Q2: Can I still use SEPC for CoO?
Not for categories now reassigned to IIFT. You must refer to the updated DGFT notification.
Q3: Is the application process different under IIFT?
No major changes. Process continues via the same DGFT CoO portal.
Summary
DGFT updates the issuing authority for Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin from SEPC to IIFT. Exporters must use the new contact details provided in Trade Notice No. 07/2025-26 for CoO applications via DGFT portal to avoid documentation issues.
Need Help with Export Compliance?
Our team at Efiletax can help you apply for Certificates of Origin, register on DGFT portals, and stay fully export-compliant.