DGFT launches Open API for Certificates of Origin on the Trade Connect e-Platform
On 7 September 2026, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade introduced an Open API facility that lets exporters apply for preferential and non-preferential Certificates of Origin directly from their ERP or accounting software via the Trade Connect e-Platform.
Summary
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry introduced an Open Application Programming Interface (API) facility for issuing and verifying Certificates of Origin (CoO) through the Trade Connect e-Platform on 7 September 2026. Exporters can now link their ERP, accounting or other business software directly to the DGFT CoO system instead of re-entering the same data. The facility covers both preferential CoOs, issued under Free Trade Agreements, Regional Trade Agreements and Preferential Trade Agreements to claim tariff concessions, and non-preferential CoOs.
Key facts
- Launched by
- DGFT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, 7 Sep 2026
- Facility
- Open API for issue and verification of Certificates of Origin
- Platform
- Trade Connect e-Platform
- Benefit
- Apply from own ERP/accounting software; no repeat data entry
- Coverage
- Preferential (FTA/RTA/PTA) and non-preferential CoOs
Practice MCQs 2 questions
The Open API facility for Certificates of Origin launched on 7 September 2026 is available on which platform?
Show answer
Correct answer: A — Trade Connect e-Platform
DGFT introduced the Open API for CoO issuance and verification through the Trade Connect e-Platform.
Consider the following statements about DGFT's Open API facility: 1. It covers only preferential Certificates of Origin issued under FTAs. 2. It lets exporters send application data from their own ERP or accounting software. Which of the above is/are correct?
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Correct answer: B — 2 only
Only 2 is correct. The facility covers both preferential and non-preferential Certificates of Origin.