DGFT Introduces Open API Facility for Certificate of Origin

• 08 Sep 2026
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The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has launched an Open Application Programming Interface (API) facility. This facility will be used for issuance and verification of Certificates of Origin (CoO) via Trade Connect e-Platform.

The facility is now open for use by eligible exporters. The Open API allows exporters to integrate their enterprise resource planning, accounting or other business software directly with the CoO system of DGFT. 

How Will the New API Help Exporters? 

Previously, exporters had to manually enter CoO-related information on DGFT platform. This was the case even when that information was already available in their business software. 

With the new facility, application data can be transferred electronically from the exporter’s system to the DGFT platform. It eliminates repetitive data entry, reduces errors and speeds up the entire application process.

What Types of Certificates Are Covered? 

The API facility supports not only the Preferential Certificates of Origin but also the Non-Preferential ones. The Preferential certificates are granted under the Free Trade Agreements, Regional Trade Agreements and the Preferential Trade Agreements. 

They help exporters to claim tariff concessions in the importing nation. The Non-Preferential certificates are granted for customs clearance, trade remedy, compliance and other trade purposes. However, they do not provide any tariff benefits.

How Can Exporters Use the API? 

Under this facility, exporters can obtain API credentials through the API Management section of the CoO Portal and register the IP addresses from which their systems will connect. Three APIs are available: 

• Authentication Token API: For secure login. 

• CoO File API: For submitting applications and receiving certificates. 

• Certificate Verification API: For verifying issued certificates. 

How Can Exporters Track Their Applications? 

A transaction ledger is maintained for each application. It provides details of the status of the application, which may include Draft, In Process, Approved, Certificate Issued and Rejected. 

What’s more, the ledger captures the acknowledgment ID, file number, file date, and certificate number. This allows exporters to track their applications electronically. 

What Security Features Does Open API Have? 

Open API facility comprises numerous security safeguards so as to ensure the information gets exchanged in a secure and reliable manner. All requests and responses are digitally signed using SHA-256 RSA digital signatures with 2048-bit X.509 certificates. This is done to ensure data integrity, sender authentication and non-repudiation. 

Passwords are protected using PBKDF2 hashing with a dynamic salt. Access is restricted to IP addresses that the exporter has whitelisted. Each access token remains valid for a total of 60 minutes. 

Which Trade Agreements Are Covered? 

Under the framework, major trade agreements and certification schemes have been provided coverage. This includes:

• India–Japan CEPA, 

• India–Korea CEPA, 

• SAFTA, 

• SAPTA, 

• ASEAN–India FTA, 

• India–Singapore CECA, 

• India–Malaysia CECA, 

• India–Chile PTA, 

• India–Mercosur PTA, 

• India–UAE CEPA, 

• India–Australia ECTA, 

• India–Oman CEPA, India–EFTA TEPA, 

• India–UK CETA, 

• Generalized System of Preferences and Non-Preferential CoO Scheme. 

On the basis of agreement or certification scheme opted for by the exporter, the system automatically applies the relevant fields, origin criteria and validation rules.

Where Can Exporters Access the Facility? 

The registration, authentication and technical integration processes can be accessed on the Trade Connect e-Platform at: https://www.trade.gov.in/pages/certificate-of-origin. In addition to this, a step-by-step help manual has been attached to the Trade Notice for more clarity. 

DGFT Helpdesk for Queries

Exporters, Export Promotion Councils, designated Certificate of Origin (CoO) issuing agencies and trade bodies can reach out to the DGFT Helpdesk via the toll-free numbers or email for any queries, suggestions or feedback regarding the eCoO module. More information can be found in Trade Notice No. 25/2026-27, dated 7 September 2026, issued by the DGFT. 

Source:- Press Information Bureau (PIB)