ursprungsbevis

Ursprungsbevis, or certificate of origin, is a document used in international trade to certify the country where goods originated. Customs authorities use it to determine whether products meet the rules of origin required for preferential tariffs under trade agreements or to verify non-preferential origin for general customs purposes.

A certificate of origin typically contains information about the goods (description, HS code, value), the exporter and importer, the declared origin, and a statement that the goods comply with the applicable rules of origin. It is usually issued by an authorized body in the exporting country, most commonly a chamber of commerce or a government trade authority. In some regimes, exporters may issue an origin declaration themselves under specific schemes.

There are two broad categories: non-preferential certificates of origin and certificates of origin for preferential trade. Preferential certificates enable reduced duties under free trade agreements (for example EUR.1 movement certificate or Form A under the general system of preferences). The rules of origin determine whether a product qualifies, often requiring substantial transformation or a minimum value-added percentage.

The document is typically validated by an official stamp or signature and is usually required to accompany the commercial invoice and transport documents. Many jurisdictions support electronic systems for issuing and submitting certificates of origin, improving processing times and traceability.

In Sweden, ursprungsbevis is handled by authorized bodies such as the chamber of commerce or other competent authorities. Procedures vary by country and by the specific trade agreement in question.