What Is CO Form AI? Guide to Applying for the Certificate of Origin under the ASEAN–India Trade in Goods Agreement (AIFTA)
What Is CO Form AI?
What Is CO Form AI?
CO Form AI (Certificate of Origin Form AI) is a document certifying the origin of goods issued under the ASEAN–India Free Trade in Goods Agreement (AIFTA).
The agreement, signed between ASEAN’s 10 member countries and India, aims to promote trade liberalization, tariff reduction, and deeper economic cooperation among participating nations.
When goods are accompanied by a valid CO Form AI, exporters can enjoy preferential import tariffs when shipping from Vietnam to India or between other ASEAN countries under the AIFTA framework.
Legal reference: The current CO Form AI template is specified in Appendix 5 of Circular No. 15/2010/TT-BCT issued by Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT).
>> Read More:What is CO Form D? A Complete Guide for Export-Import Businesses
Which Countries Apply CO Form AI?
Which Countries Apply CO Form AI?
CO Form AI applies to trade among ASEAN member states and India, including:
🇻🇳 Vietnam, 🇮🇩 Indonesia, 🇲🇾 Malaysia, 🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇸🇬 Singapore, 🇵🇭 Philippines, 🇱🇦 Laos, 🇲🇲 Myanmar, 🇰🇭 Cambodia, 🇧🇳 Brunei, and 🇮🇳 India.
Key Benefits of CO Form AI for Exporters
Obtaining a CO Form AI offers several advantages for businesses engaged in international trade:
- Preferential Tariff Rates: Goods with a valid CO Form AI are eligible for reduced or zero import tariffs under the AIFTA Tariff Schedule — enhancing competitiveness in the Indian market.
- Enhanced Credibility: A verified Certificate of Origin increases trust from both customs authorities and international trading partners.
- Faster Customs Clearance: Pre-certified goods experience smoother customs procedures and reduced inspection times.
>> Read More: What Are CO and CQ? Why Crucial in International Trade? (Updated 2025)
Required Documents for CO Form AI Application
Businesses must prepare two main sets of documents in accordance with Circular No. 15/2010/TT-BCT:
(1) CO Application Dossier
- Application form for CO issuance (Appendix 7).
- Completed CO Form AI template.
- Export customs declaration (with customs clearance confirmation).
- Commercial Invoice.
- Bill of Lading (or equivalent transport document).
- Sales contract or other trade-related documents.
- Proof of origin (e.g., raw material certificates, production process, or cost statement).
(2) Trader Registration Dossier
Before applying for CO Form AI, exporters must register their trader profile with an authorized CO-issuing organization:
- Specimen signature and company seal of the authorized representative.
- Certified copies of Business Registration Certificate and Tax Code Registration.
- List of production sites and bill of materials (if applicable).
Note: Trader profiles must be updated at least every two years or whenever company information changes.
How to Fill Out CO Form AI (Step-by-Step Guide)
The CO Form AI must be typed in English and consistent with other trade documents (invoice, bill of lading, customs declaration). Below are key fields to complete correctly:
| Field | Content | Notes |
| Top Right Corner | Reference Number | 13-character code in 5 groups, e.g. VN-IN10/02/00006 |
| Box 1 | Exporter’s name & address | Must indicate Vietnam as the exporting country |
| Box 2 | Importer’s name & address | India or any ASEAN importing country |
| Box 3 | Transport details | e.g. “By sea – Chennai Port” or “By air – New Delhi” |
| Box 7 | Description of goods & HS code | Must match invoice and customs declaration |
| Box 8 | Origin criteria | e.g. “WO” (Wholly Obtained) or “CTH” (Change in Tariff Heading) |
| Box 11 | Exporter’s declaration | Signed and sealed by the exporter |
| Box 12 | Certification by issuing authority | Signed, dated, and stamped by the authorized CO office |
How to Apply for CO Form AI in Vietnam
How to Apply for CO Form AI in Vietnam
1. Submit Application Directly at Authorized Office
- Issuing Authority: Regional Export–Import Management Offices under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (e.g., Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang).
- Processing Time: Same working day if all documents are valid.
- Late Issuance: CO Form AI can be issued up to 3 days after shipment departure if justified by valid reasons.
2. Apply for Electronic CO Form AI (eCO)
Since January 1, 2024, under Official Notice No. 1089/TB-XNK, businesses can submit electronic CO Form AI applications via: https://ecosys.gov.vn
Steps to apply:
- Register trader account on the eCOSys system.
- Fill out CO Form AI details online.
- Attach supporting documents (PDF versions of invoice, BL, customs declaration, etc.).
- Track application status in real time.
- Once approved, print the CO Form AI on A4 ISO-standard white paper, containing a QR code or electronic reference number.
Advantages: Faster submission – online tracking – reduced paperwork – transparent approval process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who issues CO Form AI in Vietnam?
→ The Ministry of Industry and Trade authorizes regional Export–Import Management Offices to issue Form AI (e.g., in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang).
Can CO Form AI be issued after the shipment departs?
→ Yes. Exporters can request post-shipment issuance within 3 days after vessel departure, if properly justified.
Which is more valid – electronic or paper CO Form AI?
→ Both electronic and physical COs have equal legal validity, depending on the importer’s requirement.
How to verify a CO Form AI issued in Vietnam?
→ Exporters can verify or track CO Form AI using the reference number at: https://ecosys.gov.vn.
CO Form AI is a crucial document in Vietnam–India trade, enabling exporters to benefit from preferential tariffs, strengthen credibility, and streamline customs clearance.
In the digital trade era, adopting electronic CO Form AI (eCO) helps businesses save time, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency.
Cargo Transportation from Vietnam to India Service
Cargo Transportation from Vietnam to India Service
Applying for C/O Form AI is not just an administrative formality — it is a strategic step that allows Vietnamese businesses to enjoy preferential tariffs when exporting to India and ASEAN countries under the AIFTA Agreement.
Even a small mistake in origin documentation or product criteria can cause your company to lose tariff preferences, face customs delays, or incur unexpected storage costs.
King Freight Logistics Vietnam (KFLV) provides end-to-end cargo transportation services from Vietnam to India, helping exporters ship to India – ASEAN quickly, accurately, and in full compliance with regulations:
- Consulting and guidance on preparing documents in line with official requirements
- Supporting you throughout the C/O Form AI application, customs clearance, and delivery process to ensure export timelines
- Optimizing cost and transit time so your business can fully leverage Vietnam–India tariff preferences under AIFTA
Contact us today at +84 (0) 938 188 796 or cs1@hcm.kfkingfreight.com for detailed consultation and support, ensuring your cargo clears customs smoothly and enjoys maximum tariff benefits under the AIFTA Agreement.
Written bykflv.vn
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