Many might have heard about CO, CQ in importing goods, yet the precise understanding of these two types of documents might still elude them. Grasping the concepts of CO, CQ and their respective roles can offer numerous benefits in the import-export activities of enterprises. Let's delve into clarification with MDCT LOGISTICS in the following article!
1. What is CO?
CO stands for Certificate of Origin, a document proving the origin of goods. It clearly states where the goods were produced, their country of origin, the selling entity, and simultaneously certifies the importing entity of those goods.
The Certificate of Origin (CO) is usually issued by the exporting entity or a third party with authorization or delegated authority from the manufacturer. This document is submitted to the customs authority of the importing country to facilitate entry or to enjoy preferential treatment.
The Significance and Role of CO in Importing Goods:
CO is a document of significance, proving the clear origin and legality regarding customs duties and legal regulations regarding the import of goods into Vietnam. CO helps ascertain that the goods are not counterfeit or without a clear origin.
CO plays a decisive role in the following aspects:
Proving that the product meets certain criteria to be recognized with a clear origin.
The origin of the goods helps determine whether they are eligible for preferential treatment under international trade agreements.
Determining the origin of goods also aids in anti-dumping activities and effectively applying countervailing duties.
Determining the origin assists in compiling trade statistics for a country or region more easily. Based on this, trade authorities can maintain quota systems and promote trade.
Types of CO:
Certificate of Origin - CO is divided into two main types:
Non-preferential CO: This is the standard CO, only validating the origin of a specific product from a certain country.
Preferential CO: This certifies the origin of imported goods eligible for reduced or duty-free import taxes based on the preferences of trade agreements between countries.
Common CO Forms Applied in Vietnam:
CO Form D: Goods exported to ASEAN countries enjoying preferential tariffs under the CEPT trade agreement.
CO Form E: Goods exported to China and ASEAN countries eligible for preferential tariffs under the ASEAN-China trade agreement.
CO Form VJ: Goods exported according to special import tax schedules to implement the Vietnam-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement.
CO Form AK: Goods exported to South Korea and ASEAN countries eligible for preferential tariffs under the ASEAN-Korea trade agreement.
CO Form AJ: Goods exported under Vietnam's preferential import tax schedule to implement the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
2. What is CQ?
CQ stands for Certificate of Quality. C/Q is a document certifying that the goods meet the quality standards of the manufacturer or international standards, reflecting the manufacturer's commitment to the buyer regarding the quality of the goods. This document is not mandatory in customs clearance.
For some imported items, when undergoing state quality inspections (such as specialized motorcycle registration), CQ must be submitted in the registration documents.
The Significance and Role of Quality Certification - CQ:
CQ certifies that the goods are produced in accordance with the declared international standards of the goods.
CQ helps certify imported products as having high quality and safety, increasing consumer and partner confidence.
It serves as evidence that the enterprise has fully complied with legal requirements regarding goods.
It protects consumers from low-quality products that may affect their health and safety.
Forms of Goods Quality Certification:
Goods quality certification includes two forms:
Standard compliance certification: This certification confirms the quality of goods meeting the corresponding standards and conditions domestically or internationally. The certification method of standard compliance is voluntary but must ensure accuracy.
Technical standard compliance certification: This is a mandatory activity performed according to the requirements of state management agencies. Compliance certification is an activity to certify the quality of products that comply with technical standards as regulated by state management agencies. Technical standard compliance certification often refers to issues of safety, hygiene, and the environment.
MDCT LOGISTICS has provided some basic information about CO, CQ. Understanding what CO, CQ are is crucial for enterprises when dealing with customs procedures. If enterprises encounter difficulties with import documents, please contact MDCT LOGISTICS hotline at 0865 763 169 for the fastest advice!
