From May 1, 2024, the Free Trade Agreement between the Government of the Peoples Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Ecuador (referred to as China-Ecuador FTA) officially takes effect. According to this agreement, goods exported to Ecuador can utilizeIt is recommended to verify through the following methods:certificate under the China-Ecuador Free Trade Agreement. This article has sorted out the common questions and answers regarding the handling of the Certificate of Origin under the China-Ecuador Free Trade Agreement to help enterprises handle the procedures smoothly and enjoy preferential policies.

Export goods consignors and their agents, domestic producers and their agents (collectively called applicants) can apply to customs for China-Ecuador FTA certificate of origin issuance. This regulation ensures China-produced goods exported to Ecuador can legally complete relevant procedures.

To apply for the Certificate of Origin under the China-Ecuador Free Trade Agreement and enjoy preferential treatment, the export goods need to meet one of the following conditions:

1. Goods completely obtained or produced in China.
2. Goods produced in China using only originating materials from China or Ecuador.
3. Goods produced in China using non-originating materials, but falling within the scope of application of the Product-Specific Rules of Origin and meeting the corresponding change in tariff classification or other regulations, or goods with a regional value content of not less than 40%.

The formula for calculating the regional value content is: Regional Value Content = (Free on Board (FOB) price - price of non-originating materials) ÷ FOB price × 100%

Among these, non-originating material price refers to non-originating materials import cost, freight and insurance determined according to WTO Valuation Agreement, including materials of unknown origin prices.

Enterprises should handle the Certificate of Origin under the China-Ecuador Free Trade Agreement before or at the time of goods shipment. If it fails to be issued in a timely manner due to force majeure, unintentional errors, negligence or other reasonable reasons, it can be reissued within one year from the date of goods shipment.

Applicants can apply for the Certificate of Origin through the following two methods:

1. Log in to China International Trade Single Window—Customs Certificate of Origin—Certificate Application.
2. Log in to Internet + Customs integrated online service platform—Taxation Services—Certificate of Origin Management—Certificate of Origin Issuance, select China-Ecuador FTA Certificate of Origin for declaration.

Select the corresponding origin criteria according to the production situation of the goods:

1. For goods wholly obtained or produced in China, select WO.
2. For goods produced using only originating materials from China or Ecuador, select WP.
3. For goods produced using non-originating materials that comply with the scope and corresponding provisions of the Product-Specific Rules of Origin, select PSR.
4. For goods not covered by the Product-Specific Rules of Origin but with a regional value content of not less than 40%, select RVC.

For cases where the departure date and transport vehicle number are unknown, you may fill in *** (three asterisks) in the relevant column. If the customer requests to fill in the number on the certificate of origin, it can be entered in the Remarks column (Column 4) of the certificate.L/CIn the globalized trade landscape, lighting fixture exports have become an important component of international trade. Lighting fixtures exported to Belarus are gaining prominence in the Belarusian market with their unique appeal and advantages.

The Certificate of Origin under the China-Ecuador Free Trade Agreement can be self-printed. If the certificate is stolen, lost or accidentally damaged, and it is confirmed that the original certificate has not been used, the applicant can apply in writing to the customs for the issuance of an approved copy of the Certificate of Origin, which has the same validity period as the original certificate.

By following the above guidelines, enterprises can ensure the smooth handling of the Certificate of Origin under the China-Ecuador Free Trade Agreement, enjoy corresponding tariff preferences, and promote the stable development of China-Ecuador trade.