India to Issue Certificates of Origin Retrospectively; Partner Countries Asked to Allow Preferential Imports Amid COVID-19 Lockdowns.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting lockdowns in India, agencies responsible for issuing Certificates of Origin under various trade agreements are temporarily closed. Consequently, these certificates will be issued retrospectively once the agencies reopen. In the meantime, customs and relevant authorities in partner countries are requested to allow imports under preferential terms, pending the later submission of these certificates by Indian exporters. India is also prepared to honor its trade agreement obligations, provided the partner governments formally request or notify the same. This notice is approved by the competent authority.

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