What are the differences between certificate of origin and GSP Certificate of Origin Form A?

What are the differences between certificate of origin and GSP Certificate of Origin Form A?

Certificate of origin is a generic name of an international shipping document, which is used to identify the origin of goods that is subject to foreign trade business. 

There are various types of certificates of origin in circulation. The most frequently used one is known as ordinary certificate of origin or simply "certificate of origin".

GSP Certificate of Origin Form A is a special type of certificate of origin, that can be grouped under "preferential certificates of origin".

Today on this article I would like to mention the differences between ordinary certificates of origin and GSP certificate of origin Form A.

Certificates of Origin: Ordinary certificates of origin could be used in any kind of international trade transaction. It simply states the origin of the goods, but does not give any benefits to the importers in terms of import custom duties.

Once an ordinary certificate of origin presented to the customs, importers will pay tariff rates as applicable to Normal Trade Relations (NTR) or Most Favoured Nation (MFN).

Ordinary certificates of origin should be completed by the exporter and certified by one of the local chambers of commerce.

In some cases certificates of origins should be legalized by the importing country's embassy/consulate in accordance with the letter of credit terms and conditions or import requirements.

GSP Certificate of Origin Form A: Form A is a special type of certificate of origin. It does not only states the origin of goods, but also allows importers to be benefited from reduced tariff rates during importation.

Once a Form A certificate of origin presented to the customs, importers will pay preferential tariff rates as applicable to under the Generalized System of Preferences.

As Form A is a special type of certificate of origin, it should be issued in limited situations, where Generalized System of Preferences applies. 

Form A certificates of origin should be completed by the exporter and certified by one of the local chambers of commerce or another authorized institution.

In very rare situations Form A certificates of origins should be legalized by the importing country's embassy/consulate in accordance with the letter of credit terms and conditions or import requirements.