For those who wish to obtain a Certificate of Origin for food

Updated: July 2025, 9

When exporting food overseas, there are cases where the importer requests that you obtain 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 food, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner the specific steps and points to note when obtaining a Certificate of Origin.

What is a Certificate of Origin? Why is it required for food products?

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

For example, when exporting food produced in Japan to Thailand or Indonesia, by utilizing agreements with those countries (e.g., the Japan-Indonesia EPA), it may be possible to obtain exemptions or reductions from normal tariffs.

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

Frequently asked questions about obtaining a Certificate of Origin for food

We have supported many applications for origin determination so far.

We can also use our accumulated know-how to support any problems specific to food.

It is difficult to disclose information from manufacturers of OEM products

Since OEM products are manufactured by other companies, there are cases where they are unable to disclose information or cooperate.

We can contact manufacturers directly and have them submit an application for a product origin determination.

As an administrative scrivener's office, we will support your application while adhering to confidentiality obligations.

The export schedule is tight

In the case of food products, the schedule for production and shipping is often short, so if it takes time to issue a certificate,

There is a risk that you will not receive preferential treatment.

We can process and issue large quantities of specific certificates of origin on a regular basis.

Some ingredients are not produced in Japan

Some raw materials are not made in Japan and cannot be certified as being from a supplier.

We will propose methods to the extent possible that allow you to request a judgment even if supplier certification is not possible due to the application of de minimis rules or accumulation.

Correspondence record

Steps to obtaining a Certificate of Origin for Cosmetics

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 raw materials (primary materials)

In the case of food, raw materials (primary ingredients) are sometimes thought to be the same as ingredients,

In reality, raw materials (primary ingredients) and ingredients are different.

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

When applying the CTC rules, it is necessary to check the HS coating of dozens of types of primary materials.

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 Certificates of Origin, please contact Support Administrative Scriveners Corporation.

In recent years, recognition of certificates of origin has increased among importing countries, and there are more and more cases where importers request them.

In addition, while Japanese products are of good quality, they are expensive and put at a disadvantage in price competition, so using a specific certificate of origin is effective.

Our company has supported the acquisition of certificates of origin in a wide range of fields, including food.

Our experienced staff will provide prompt and reliable support to meet your company's needs.

If you have concerns such as "I don't have enough time" or "I'm worried about the procedures I can handle," please contact us. We will help you to smoothly advance your trading activities.