What is C/O Form A?

What is C/O Form A?

C/O (Certificate of Origin) is a document certifying the origin of goods, issued by a competent authority in the exporting country. Each type of C/O corresponds to a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), enabling exporters to enjoy tariff preferences.

C/O Form A (or C/O mẫu A) is a Certificate of Origin issued for Vietnamese export goods eligible for preferential tariffs under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) granted by developed countries.

Countries applying GSP for Vietnam include the European Union (EU), Japan, Canada, Switzerland, and others. Exporters with C/O Form A for eligible goods can benefit from reduced or exempted import duties.

>> Read More: What Are CO and CQ? Why Crucial in International Trade? (Updated 2025)

Purpose of C/O Form A

Applying for a C/O Form A brings several benefits beyond tariff reduction:

• Preferential GSP tariffs: Reduce or exempt import duties in GSP member markets.
• Trade statistics and quotas: Support trade data collection and quota management by authorities.
• Labeling compliance: Ensure goods meet origin labeling requirements.
• Government and international trade contracts: Many buyers require C/O as part of their purchasing conditions.

Example: A Vietnamese enterprise exports coffee powder to Germany (EU). With a valid C/O Form A, the coffee qualifies for GSP tariffs, reducing import costs.

>> Read More:

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Who Issues C/O Form A in Vietnam?

Who Issues C/O Form A in Vietnam?

C/O Form A in Vietnam is issued by:

• Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT): Issues preferential C/Os under FTAs.
• Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI): Issues C/O forms A, B, ICO, Turkey, and some non-preferential C/Os.
• Authorized Import-Export Management Offices: Issue C/O Form A for footwear exported to the EU and other forms such as D, E, AK, AJ, AI, AANZ, VJ, VK, etc.

Note: Footwear exported to the EU uses C/O Form A issued by MOIT or authorized Industrial Zone Management Boards. Other products are mainly issued by VCCI.

Processing Time for C/O Form A

• Valid applications: Usually issued on the same working day.
• Complex cases: May take up to 3 working days.
• On-site inspection required: Up to 7 working days, with prior notice from the issuing authority.

To avoid delays, exporters must ensure all documents are accurate and complete.

Required Documents for C/O Form A Application

To apply for a C/O Form A, exporters need:

• Application form for C/O Form A (as prescribed).
• Record sheet of Form A application.
• Completed C/O Form A template.
• Export customs declaration (certified copy).
• Commercial Invoice
• Bill of Lading (B/L) or equivalent transport document.
• HS code breakdown of input materials and finished products.
• Production process description.
• Import declaration of raw materials (if applicable).
• Domestic purchase contracts or VAT invoices.
• Export license (if required).

Important Notes When Applying for C/O Form A

• Accuracy & consistency: Information must match all supporting documents.
• Meet GSP origin criteria: Provide sufficient proof of origin.
• Understand the process: Familiarize with procedures to avoid rejections.
• Policy updates: Keep up with new circulars and regulations issued by MOIT.

Key Information in C/O Form A

Key Information in C/O Form A

Some critical fields include:

• Box 1: Exporter’s details in Vietnam.
• Box 2: Importer’s details (buyer).
• Box 3: Transport method, voyage number, port of export/import.
• Box 4: Special remarks from the issuing authority.
• Boxes 5–9: Product details – name, description, origin criteria, gross weight.
• Boxes 10–12: Invoice details, issue date, country of origin, and authorized signature.

For Vietnamese exporters, C/O Form A is more than just a document. Understanding “What is C/O Form A, who issues it, which countries accept it, and what documents are required” helps businesses:

• Save time in customs clearance.
• Optimize export costs through tariff preferences.
• Enhance competitiveness in international markets.

Export Services to the EU, Japan, Canada, Switzerland & More

Export Services to the EU, Japan, Canada, Switzerland & More

Applying for C/O Form A is not just a procedural step — it directly impacts tariff costs and export timelines. Any missing or incorrect information can lead to rejection, shipment delays, and financial risks.

King Freight Logistics Vietnam (KFLV) provides comprehensive consulting and end-to-end support:

• Guidance on preparing complete and compliant documents.
• Advisory on rules of origin and GSP requirements.
• Ongoing support throughout the entire export process.

Contact us at +84 (0) 938 188 796 or cs1@hcm.kfkingfreight.com for detailed consultation and optimized export costs.