Origin of the goods

What is it for?

From a customs point of view, it is necessary to prove the origin of goods for the application of trade policy measures (quotas, quantitative limits, anti-dumping, anti-subsidy, etc.)and preferential tariff policy measures (tariff benefits under EC preferential agreements or arrangements with certain countries, groups of countries or territories).

Depending on the country of origin of the goods, a standard or reduced or zero tariff rate, may be applied derived from the granting of:

• Preferential tariff measures contained in agreements that the European Union has concluded with certain countries or groups of countries and which provide for the granting of preferential tariff treatment.
• Preferential tariff measures adopted unilaterally by the European Union in favour of certain countries, groups of countries or territories;e.g. the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP).
• Autonomous suspension measures providing for the reduction of or exemption from import duties on certain goods.

The tariff quotas are listed on this page.

In addition, depending on the origin of the goods, the importation of goods may be limited or subject to certain conditions or requirements that must be met;e.g. measures prohibiting imports into the European Union for political, health or public order reasons or measures requiring certain controls, such as health certification, veterinary certification, SOIVRE (quality), etc.