Preferential origin: end of VOCID measures for certificates
In a note dated 4 March, Customs informs operators of the end of VOCID-related measures concerning the presentation of evidence of preferential origin.
Since April 2020, exceptional measures have been put in place by the European Commission to use copies of certificates issued by the authorities for the application of preferential origin in the framework of EU trade agreements with its partners.
Although almost all importers in France have returned to the submission of original documents for many months already, Customs has officially indicated theend of such exceptional measures.
From 1 May 2024,Therefore, operators will no longer be able to submit copies of ATR or EUR1/EUR MED certificates to benefit from reductions in customs import duties.
As a reminder, certificates must be covered and signed by the authorities of the exporting country unless the exporter benefits from simplified procedures in his country (e.g. many Turkish exporters who are exempt from customs signature on their pre-authenticated certificates).
In order to avoid paper processing of evidence of origin, the option of approved exporting status is left to allow for the filing of an origin invoice declaration (DOF) instead of EUR1 and EUR-MED documents only, since no dematerialisation of the ATR certificate is still envisaged.
In addition, theNote to operators on proof of preferential originDGDI (Directorate-General for Customs and Indirect Rights).
Source(s):DGDDI
Editor(s):L. SPRIET