The certificate of origin is one of the most important import documents, and it can directly affect the customs duties you pay. Many importers overlook its role until they hit a snag during customs clearance. In this guide from MESAMA, we explain what a certificate of origin is and how to obtain one from China.
What Is a Certificate of Origin?
A certificate of origin is an official document that proves the country where your goods were manufactured. Customs authorities use it to determine the correct tariff treatment, and it can unlock preferential rates depending on the trade agreements in place between countries.
Types of Certificate of Origin
| Type | Use |
|---|---|
| Non-preferential certificate of origin | Proves the country of origin |
| Preferential certificate of origin | Qualifies goods for reduced duties under trade agreements |
Why Customs Needs a Certificate of Origin
- Officially establishes the country of origin.
- Can influence the rate of customs duties in certain cases.
- Is a required item among your shipping documents for release.
- Demonstrates compliance with rules of origin.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Certificate of Origin
How do I get a certificate of origin from China? It is issued by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) or other authorized bodies, at the request of your supplier or manufacturer, and is bundled with the rest of your shipping documents. In most cases the supplier handles issuing it as part of your agreement.
Is a certificate of origin mandatory for importing into Saudi Arabia? Yes. It is one of the core documents required during customs clearance.
What is the difference between a certificate of origin and a commercial invoice? The commercial invoice shows the value and description of the goods, while the certificate of origin only proves where they were manufactured — and customs requires both.
MESAMA Tips on the Certificate of Origin
- Ask your supplier to issue the certificate of origin before the goods ship.
- Make sure its details match the commercial invoice and the bill of lading.
- Keep original copies on hand to avoid delays in customs release.
MESAMA takes care of securing the certificate of origin and every other import document on your behalf, so your goods clear customs smoothly. Get in touch, or take a look at our HS code guide.