The US-Japan Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was signed in October 2019, and it has been in effect since January 1, 2020. The FTA aims to eliminate or reduce tariffs on a variety of goods and services traded between the two countries. To qualify for preferential tariff treatment under the FTA, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) form. In this article, we will provide an overview of the US-Japan FTA Certificate of Origin form and its requirements.
What is a Certificate of Origin?
A certificate of origin is an official document that verifies the country of origin for goods that are being exported. The purpose of the certificate of origin is to provide evidence for the importing country that the goods being imported qualify for preferential tariff treatment under a free trade agreement or a preferential trade agreement. In the case of the US-Japan FTA, the COO certifies that the goods in question are originating in the United States or Japan, as the case may be.
What is the US-Japan FTA Certificate of Origin Form?
The US-Japan FTA Certificate of Origin Form is an official document provided by the exporter or producer of the goods that are being exported. The form is used to provide the importing country with all of the necessary information to determine if the imported goods qualify for preferential tariff treatment under the FTA.
The US-Japan FTA Certificate of Origin Form requires the following information:
1. Name, address, and GST identification number of the exporter
2. Name, address, and GST identification number of the producer (if different from the exporter)
3. Name, address, and GST identification number of the importer
4. Description of the goods being exported, including HS code
5. The origin declaration, which certifies that the goods meet the FTA origin criteria
6. The signature and date of the exporter or producer
What are the Requirements for the US-Japan FTA Certificate of Origin Form?
To qualify for preferential tariff treatment under the US-Japan FTA, the goods being imported must meet the FTA origin criteria. The origin criteria vary depending on the type of goods being imported. However, in general, the goods must satisfy one of the following:
1. The goods are wholly obtained or produced in the United States or Japan
2. The goods are produced in the United States or Japan using materials that are originating in the United States or Japan
3. The goods are produced in the United States or Japan using materials that do not meet the origin criteria, but the materials have undergone sufficient production in the United States or Japan to qualify as originating in either country.
Conclusion:
The US-Japan FTA Certificate of Origin Form is an essential document for importers and exporters who are looking to take advantage of the preferential tariff treatment under the FTA. The form certifies that the goods being imported meet the origin criteria and are therefore eligible for reduced or eliminated tariffs. Importers and exporters should ensure that they understand all of the requirements for the COO form and that they complete it accurately to avoid any delays or issues with customs. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your goods qualify for preferential tariff treatment under the US-Japan FTA.
