Issuance of CoO for Agarwood on Trade Connect ePlatform
Introduction of Online Module for Issuance of Certificate of Origin (CoO) for Agarwood on Trade Connect ePlatform
Attention is invited to Para 1.07 of the Foreign Trade Policy, which emphasizes efficient, transparent, and accountable systems for facilitating exports and imports. In line with this objective, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has introduced an online system for issuance of Certificate of Origin (CoO) for Agarwood exports through the Trade Connect ePlatform (TCeP).
The digital module has been developed to improve transparency, traceability, and ease of doing business for exporters dealing in Agarwood products.
1. Purpose of the Module
The platform enables issuance of CoOs for Agarwood exports to establish lawful origin, maintain chain-of-custody records, and ensure compliance with international regulations, including requirements under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
The Trade Connect ePlatform functions as a unified digital interface for CoO issuance and related trade facilitation services.
2. Features of the Online System
Exporters can electronically submit applications along with supporting documents covering:
- Source and origin details
- Stock information
- Chain-of-custody records
- Inspection reports and photographs
Applications will be digitally forwarded to the concerned Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) for verification and inspection, followed by review and approval by the designated State Nodal Officer. Once approved, the Certificate of Origin will be issued electronically through the platform.
The system is designed to provide:
- A paperless workflow
- Enhanced traceability
- Reduced physical interaction with authorities
- Faster processing and monitoring of applications
Workflow Details
3. Exporter Workflow
(i) Login Credentials
Exporters may use their existing DGFT portal credentials on the Trade Connect ePlatform. Separate registration on the platform is not required.
- DGFT Portal: DGFT Website
- Trade Connect Platform: Trade Connect ePlatform
(ii) Registration for New Users
Exporters not already registered on the DGFT portal must complete registration first. Guidance is available under the Application Help & FAQs section.
(iii) Application Process
Exporters may apply online through the following navigation path:
Trade Connect ePlatform → Certificate of Origin → Apply for Certificate of Origin → Application Details → Basic Details → Certification Details → Type of Certificate of Origin → Other → Trade Agreement/Others → Forest Produce – Agarwood
(iv) Information to be Submitted
Applicants are required to provide:
- Source/origin details
- Stock particulars
- Chain-of-custody information
- Quantity and product description
- Supporting documents and inspection photographs
(v) Application Tracking
Exporters can monitor the status of applications online through the portal.
(vi) Download of Certificate
Approved Certificates of Origin can be downloaded digitally from the platform.
4. Onboarding Process for DFOs and State Nodal Officers
(i) Registration Procedure
Authorized officials must register on the Trade Connect ePlatform by selecting:
- “Register User As” → “CoO Authorized Agency”
- Agency: “North Eastern States (For Issuance of Agarwood)”
Officials registering as:
- State Nodal Officers must select the relevant State name
- DFOs must select State and District details
(ii) Official Email Requirement
Only official government email IDs should be used during registration.
(iii) Digital Signature Registration
Officials must register their Digital Signature Certificate through:
“My Dashboard” → “Register Digital Signature Certificate”
This enables digital signing of electronic CoOs.
(iv) Existing Registered Officials
DFOs and State Nodal Officers already onboarded on the DGFT Back Office Portal are not required to register again. Assistance may be sought through the DGFT support email.
5. Workflow for Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs)
- Applications submitted by exporters will be routed to the jurisdictional DFO.
- The DFO will conduct document verification and physical inspection of stock and records.
- After verification, the application will be forwarded online to the State Nodal Officer along with recommendations or observations.
6. Workflow for State Nodal Officers
- The State Nodal Officer will review the verified application.
- The officer may approve, reject, or seek additional clarification if deficiencies are found.
- Once approved, the CoO will be generated and issued electronically through the Trade Connect ePlatform.
7. Effective Date and User Guidance
Exporters and stakeholders are advised to familiarize themselves with the new online procedure and begin using the module for filing and processing applications from May 25, 2026 onward.
User manuals for exporters and officials are available on the Trade Connect ePlatform.
Trade Connect ePlatform User Resources
Verification of Certificate of Origin
Authorities seeking to verify the authenticity of a Certificate of Origin may use the verification facility available on the Trade Connect ePlatform:
Trade Connect ePlatform → Certificate of Origin → Verify Certificate
By entering the CoO number, the system will display the certificate details available on the platform.
Support and Assistance: Exporters and stakeholders may contact the DGFT Helpdesk for queries, suggestions, or technical assistance related to the eCoO module.
Support Channels
- Toll-free support through DGFT Helpdesk
- Email assistance: coo-dgft@gov.in
This Trade Notice is issued with the approval of the competent authority.
Go to DGFT
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