Trade Pact Uptick: Boost for Indian Exports with Rising Certificates of Origin

The issuance of preferential certificates of origin under India's free trade agreements has risen significantly, with a 2024-25 total reaching 7,20,996. This reflects increased utilization of trade agreements by Indian exporters. Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal commented on the growing trade under these agreements, emphasizing their role in improving competitiveness.

According to government data, the issuance of preferential certificates of origin has seen a robust increase, reaching 7,20,996 in 2024-25 compared to 6,84,724 in 2023-24. This uptick suggests that Indian exporters are increasingly leveraging free trade agreements.

Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal has acknowledged the rising trend of trade under preferential routes, highlighting that India is implementing over a dozen such agreements with nations such as Japan, Singapore, Korea, UAE, and Australia.

Certificates of origin are pivotal documents that exporters must present at the importing country's landing port to claim duty concessions. This increased utilization indicates the growing competitiveness of Indian exporters in the global market.