DGFT Introduces Open API Facility for Certificate of Origin on the Trade Connect e-Platform

Key Highlights:

• The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has introduced an Open API facility for Certificate of Origin (CoO).
• This facility is available on the Trade Connect e-Platform for eligible exporters.
• It enables direct integration of exporters' Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or business software with the DGFT CoO system.
• The primary goal is to eliminate repetitive data entry, reduce errors, and expedite the CoO application process.
• The system supports both Preferential (for tariff concessions under FTAs, RTAs, PTAs) and Non-Preferential CoOs.

Detailed Insights:

• Exporters can now electronically transfer application data directly from their internal systems to the DGFT platform.
• The facility offers three specific APIs: Authentication Token, CoO File submission, and Certificate Verification.
• A transaction ledger is maintained for each application, allowing exporters to track its status electronically.
• Security safeguards include digital signatures (SHA-256 RSA) for data integrity and PBKDF2 hashing for password protection.
• The framework covers major trade agreements such as India-Japan CEPA, ASEAN-India FTA, India-UAE CEPA, and India-Australia ECTA.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Certificate of Origin (CoO): An international trade document certifying that goods in an export shipment are produced or processed in a specific country.
• Open API (Application Programming Interface): A set of rules and protocols allowing different software applications to communicate and exchange data.
• Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA): A trading bloc that grants preferential access to certain products from participating countries through reduced tariffs.
• Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT): An attached office of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, responsible for implementing India's foreign trade policy.