The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is a trilateral trade agreement between the United States, Mexico, and Canada that came into effect on July 1, 2020, replacing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The USMCA includes several new provisions, one of which is the requirement for an updated Certificate of Origin.
The Certificate of Origin is a document that certifies the origin of a product. It provides information about the country in which the goods were produced, and it is used to determine the eligibility of goods for preferential treatment under trade agreements. The USMCA requires that a new form of the Certificate of Origin be used, which includes additional information not found on the NAFTA form.
The new USMCA Certificate of Origin requires the exporter or producer to provide specific information about the origin of the goods being exported, including:
• The name, address, and contact information of the exporter, producer, and importer
• A description of the goods, including the HS tariff classification and the country of origin
• A statement certifying that the goods qualify for preferential treatment under the USMCA
• The signature and date of the exporter, producer, or authorized representative
The USMCA Certificate of Origin can be completed by the exporter, producer, or importer. It can also be completed by a third party, such as a freight forwarder or customs broker. It is important to note that the USMCA Certificate of Origin must be completed accurately and truthfully, as any false statements or misrepresentations can result in penalties.
The USMCA Certificate of Origin is not required for all products shipped under the USMCA, but it is required for those products that meet specific rules of origin. These rules vary by product and are designed to ensure that the goods being traded between the US, Mexico, and Canada meet the requirements of the agreement.
In conclusion, the USMCA Certificate of Origin is an essential document required for trade between the US, Mexico, and Canada under the USMCA agreement. It is crucial to ensure that the form is completed accurately and truthfully, as any errors can lead to penalties. As always, it is important to consult with legal and trade experts to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and laws.