For those who wish to obtain a Certificate of Origin for large machinery

Updated: July 2025, 9

When exporting large machinery such as large machine tools and construction machinery overseas, there are an increasing number of cases where importers request the acquisition of a Certificate of Origin.

In order to receive preferential tariff treatment under Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) such as those between Japan and Thailand, RCEP, and Japan and Indonesia, it is necessary to prove that products meet the origin requirements.

This time, for those who are actually considering exporting large machinery, we will clearly explain the specific steps and points to note when obtaining a Certificate of Origin.

What is a Certificate of Origin? Why is it necessary even for large machinery?

The Certificate of Origin is a document established by the EPA or FTA.Certificate for preferential tariff treatment.

For example, when exporting NC lathes or excavators manufactured by Japanese companies to Thailand or Indonesia, it may be possible to obtain exemptions or reductions from normal tariffs by taking advantage of agreements with those countries (e.g., the Japan-Indonesia EPA).

However, as a condition, it is necessary to prove that the product originates in Japan (= is an originating product). The means of proof areSpecific origin certificate

Common problems with large machines

We have supported many applications for origin determination so far.

We can also use our accumulated know-how to support you with any issues specific to large machinery.

Many primary materials

Since there are many raw materials (primary materials), checking the HS codes tends to be complicated.

Additionally, the way primary materials are grouped is unique in that they are based on HS codes.

We can use our accumulated know-how to provide advice on how to compile products based on product information and temporary materials.

A structure spanning multiple factories and subcontractors

Because the manufacturing process is complex, it is often difficult to fully understand whether an item constitutes "contract production," and other matters such as the need to prepare the necessary paperwork.

We will take the lead by preparing the necessary documents and information according to the situation.

Some parts are not made in Japan.

There are hundreds to thousands of different parts, so if they are not all made in Japan, you may be worried about whether they will be recognized as being of origin.

We will propose possible solutions as far as possible within the applicable agreements and rules.

Correspondence record

■ Achievement 1: Company A (machine manufacturer)　
[Project]　
An Indian business partner who is exporting transport machinery has requested a specific certificate of origin, but there are over 1,000 types of parts (raw materials) and they don't know how to classify them.

[Request details]　
Origin determination request

[Point]　
After receiving advice on how to organize the raw materials, we were able to apply early with less than 10/1th the number of types.

■ Achievement 2: Company B (trading company/exporter)　
[Project]　
When exporting large machinery that processes steel products to South Korea, we were asked to obtain a Certificate of Origin. Since the export occurred after the product was shipped, we wanted to obtain the Certificate of Origin as soon as possible.

[Request details]　
Raw material HS code investigation, application for product origin determination, application for issuance

[Point]　
By handling everything from raw material HS code investigation to application for issuance in one go, we were able to issue the certificate in the shortest time possible.

Customer Reviews

I received friendly telephone support and easy-to-understand explanations.

The certificate of origin was obtained earlier than originally planned.

Steps to obtain a Certificate of Origin for large machinery

Identify the HS code

Identify the HS code (Tariff Code) of the product you are exporting.

The Certificate of Origin is to be used by the importing country, so you will need to check with the importer.

Check applicable EPA/FTA agreements and applicable regulations

Check the applicable EPA/FTA agreements.

If multiple agreements are applicable, it is necessary to apply the agreement or to interview the importer.

We make origin determinations based on the product's major components and processing steps.

• CTC (Change in Tariff Classification) Rules: Will the HS Codes of Foreign Materials and Final Products Change?
• VA (value added) rule: Does the percentage of value added in Japan exceed the standard?

Rules of origin vary depending on the agreement and HS code.

Checking ingredients

Large machinery involves many parts and processes.BOM (Bill of Materials) and Schedulemust be used to make an accurate judgment.

The raw materials (primary materials) of export products are in the state they were in when they were purchased.

When the CTC rule is applied, it is necessary to check the HS coating of hundreds to thousands of types of primary materials.

However, in some cases, parts made of the same material and for the same purpose are recognized as a single unit without distinction based on size or shape.

Application for origin product determination request

Prepare documents and an application form to demonstrate origin and submit the application to the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

There are no fees to the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

As long as there are no changes to the information on the exported products (including raw materials), country, rules, or producer, this one-time procedure can be used for future exports.

Application for certificate issuance

This is the procedure for having a certificate issued for each individual export.

A confirmed invoice and packing information will be required.

A fee will be charged to the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

For inquiries regarding Certificate of Origin, please contact Support Administrative Scrivener Corporation.

Large machinery has a high unit price and often has a high tariff rate, so whether or not the EPA applies can make a difference of several million yen.

That is why it is important not to put off obtaining the certificate as a "troublesome procedure," but to start preparing at an early stage.

We have assisted many companies in obtaining specific certificates of origin for large machinery exports.

Please feel free to contact us even if you are short on time or worried about doing it yourself.