Exporting to Oman? DGFT Makes eCoO Mandatory Under India–Oman CEPA – Complete Guide (2026)

Key Takeaways

• DGFT issued Trade Notice No. 06/2026-2027 dated 29 May 2026 regarding electronic filing and issuance of Preferential Certificates of Origin (CoO) under the India–Oman CEPA.
• The electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO) system became effective from 1 June 2026.
• Applications are processed through the Trade Connect ePlatform, which serves as the unified digital platform for eCoO issuance.
• Under the India–Oman CEPA, the notification provides for Authorised Agency Issued eCoO.
• Exporters should ensure their IEC profile, Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), and Trade Connect user profile are properly updated before applying.

Introduction

With the implementation of the India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (India–Oman CEPA) on 1 June 2026, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has introduced a fully electronic system for issuing Preferential Certificates of Origin (CoO) for exports to Oman.

Through Trade Notice No. 06/2026-2027, DGFT has notified that all Preferential Certificates of Origin under the Agreement will be processed through the Trade Connect ePlatform, India’s unified digital platform for electronic Certificates of Origin (eCoO).

The move is aimed at simplifying export documentation, improving transparency, enabling electronic verification, and facilitating smoother customs clearance for exporters claiming preferential tariff benefits under the India–Oman CEPA.

For exporters, manufacturers, merchant exporters, MSMEs, and export houses shipping eligible goods to Oman, understanding the new electronic Certificate of Origin process is now essential.

What is an Electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO)?

A Preferential Certificate of Origin (CoO) is an official trade document that certifies goods exported from India satisfy the Rules of Origin prescribed under a Free Trade Agreement or Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

Under the India–Oman CEPA, this certificate enables Omani importers to claim the applicable preferential customs duty benefits available under the Agreement.

From 1 June 2026, these certificates are issued electronically through the Trade Connect ePlatform, replacing manual processing for this agreement.

Why Has DGFT Introduced eCoO for India–Oman CEPA?

The notification aims to modernise India’s export documentation system by providing:

• Fully electronic Certificate of Origin issuance
• Faster application processing
• QR code-enabled certificates
• Digital verification
• Secure electronic records
• Improved transparency
• Simplified exporter compliance
• Better coordination between exporters and authorised issuing agencies

This digital framework supports India’s broader trade facilitation initiatives while making preferential exports more efficient.

Trade Connect ePlatform – The Official Portal

The Trade Notice specifies that the Trade Connect ePlatform (www.trade.gov.in) will function as the unified digital platform for:

• Application filing
• Electronic processing
• Issuance of eCoO
• Certificate download
• Online verification

Exporters applying under the India–Oman CEPA must use the Certificate of Origin service available on the Trade Connect portal.

Mode of Issuance under India–Oman CEPA

Unlike some other agreements that permit self-declaration, the Trade Notice states that the India–Oman CEPA eCoO will be issued through Authorised Agencies.

Accordingly, exporters should select:

India Oman CEPA (Agency Issued)

while filing the application on the Trade Connect platform.

The system allows applicants to choose from the list of authorised issuing agencies notified under the Agreement.

Electronic Certificate Generated by the System

Once the authorised agency examines and approves the application, the system generates an Electronic Copy of the Preferential Certificate of Origin.

According to the Trade Notice, this electronic certificate contains:

• QR Code
• Digital Signature
• Signature image of the issuing officer
• Official stamp of the issuing agency

The exporter can then download and utilise this electronically issued certificate for exports to Oman.

Featured Snippet

From 1 June 2026, exporters shipping eligible goods to Oman under the India–Oman CEPA must obtain an electronic Preferential Certificate of Origin (eCoO) through the DGFT Trade Connect platform. Applications are processed through authorised issuing agencies, and approved certificates are issued electronically with QR codes and digital signatures.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for India–Oman CEPA eCoO

The DGFT Trade Notice prescribes a fully digital workflow for obtaining the Preferential Certificate of Origin (eCoO) under the India–Oman CEPA. Exporters should follow the steps below to ensure a smooth application process.

Step 1: Log in to the Trade Connect ePlatform

Visit the Trade Connect ePlatform (www.trade.gov.in) using your existing DGFT credentials.

The Trade Notice clarifies that existing DGFT website login credentials can be used to access the Trade Connect portal. There is no requirement to create a new user account.

Step 2: Select the Certificate of Origin Service

After logging in, navigate to the Certificate of Origin (CoO) service available on the Trade Connect platform.

For exports under this agreement, select:

India Oman CEPA (Agency Issued)

This ensures that the application is routed to the appropriate authorised issuing agency.

Step 3: Choose the Authorised Issuing Agency

The notification states that a list of authorised agencies, as notified under the India–Oman CEPA, will be available within the application.

Applicants should select the appropriate agency before submitting the application.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Complete the online application by entering the required export details and uploading the prescribed supporting documents.

Once the authorised agency approves the application, the system generates an Electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO) containing:

• QR Code
• Digital Signature
• Signature of the issuing officer
• Official stamp of the issuing agency

The approved certificate can then be downloaded from the Trade Connect portal.

Common Guidelines for IEC Holders and Exporters

The DGFT Trade Notice provides several important guidelines that every IEC holder should follow before applying for an eCoO.

1. Existing DGFT Credentials Can Be Used

Users who already have DGFT login credentials can access the Trade Connect platform without creating a new account.

2. Additional User Accounts Can Be Created

Where required, businesses may create additional user accounts for the same IEC and link them using a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) through the DGFT portal.

These credentials may also be used for accessing the Trade Connect ePlatform.

3. Use Accepted Digital Signature Certificates

The notification advises exporters to use only the Digital Signature Certificates accepted under the DGFT digital ecosystem.

It also refers applicants to the DGFT Help section and IEC Profile Management resources for guidance on linking the DSC with the IEC profile.

4. Ensure Profile Details Match the DSC

Before applying, exporters should verify that:

• The name in the DGFT/Trade Connect user profile exactly matches the name appearing on the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).

Any mismatch may delay processing of the application.

5. Update IEC Details

The DGFT also advises all IEC holders to ensure that their IEC profile is fully updated.

Accurate IEC information helps ensure that the correct details are available while filing the eCoO application.

Verification Mechanism

The Trade Notice introduces an online verification facility to help customs authorities verify the authenticity of issued Certificates of Origin.

Authorities requiring verification can visit the Trade Connect ePlatform and access the:

Certificate of Origin → Verify Certificate

service.

By entering the relevant Certificate of Origin Number, the system displays the details of the certificate issued through the platform.

This electronic verification mechanism enhances transparency, reduces fraud, and simplifies verification for importing country authorities.

DGFT Support Channels

To assist exporters during implementation of the India–Oman CEPA eCoO system, DGFT has provided dedicated support channels.

Exporters may contact the DGFT Helpdesk for:

• Technical issues
• Application-related queries
• Suggestions
• Feedback regarding the eCoO module

Support is available through:

• DGFT Toll-Free Assistance
• Email Support: coo-dgft@gov.in

These support channels can be used whenever clarification or technical assistance is required while using the Trade Connect platform.

Compliance Checklist for Exporters

Before applying for an India–Oman CEPA eCoO, exporters should ensure the following:

Valid Import Export Code (IEC)

Updated IEC profile on DGFT

Existing DGFT login credentials

Access to the Trade Connect ePlatform

Correct selection of India Oman CEPA (Agency Issued)

Valid Digital Signature Certificate (where applicable)

Profile name matches the DSC

Selection of the appropriate authorised issuing agency

Complete export documentation

Download and retain the electronically issued Certificate of Origin with QR Code and Digital Signature

Common Mistakes Exporters Should Avoid

While the electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO) process under the India–Oman CEPA has been designed to simplify exports, businesses should avoid the following common mistakes that may delay certificate issuance or affect preferential tariff claims:

• Selecting the wrong agreement instead of India Oman CEPA (Agency Issued).
• Using an outdated or inactive Import Export Code (IEC) profile.
• Failing to ensure that the DGFT/Trade Connect user profile name matches the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), where applicable.
• Choosing an incorrect authorised issuing agency.
• Uploading incomplete or inaccurate export documentation.
• Not verifying the downloaded eCoO before dispatching export documents.
• Ignoring QR code and digital signature verification.
• Waiting until the last minute to apply for the Certificate of Origin before shipment.

Following the prescribed DGFT process carefully can help exporters avoid unnecessary delays and ensure smoother customs clearance in Oman.

Best Practices for Exporters

To make the most of the India–Oman CEPA benefits, exporters should adopt the following best practices:

• Keep the IEC profile updated at all times.
• Regularly verify that authorised user accounts remain active.
• Ensure Digital Signature Certificates are valid and properly linked.
• Maintain accurate product descriptions and supporting export documents.
• Download and securely store electronic Certificates of Origin.
• Verify the QR code and digital signature before sharing documents with overseas buyers.
• Stay updated with future DGFT Trade Notices relating to the India–Oman CEPA.

These practices help businesses maintain compliance while improving documentation efficiency.

Industry Insights

The launch of the electronic Certificate of Origin under the India–Oman CEPA represents another important milestone in India’s digital trade facilitation initiatives.

By shifting Certificate of Origin issuance to the Trade Connect ePlatform, DGFT has introduced a more transparent, secure, and paperless process for exporters. Features such as QR code-enabled certificates, digital signatures, electronic verification, and centralised processing reduce manual paperwork while improving trust among customs authorities and trading partners.

For Indian exporters targeting the Omani market, this digital framework not only simplifies compliance but also supports faster processing of preferential tariff claims under the CEPA, making Indian exports more competitive.

Featured Snippet

From 1 June 2026, exporters claiming preferential tariff benefits under the India–Oman CEPA must obtain an electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO) through the DGFT Trade Connect ePlatform. Applications are submitted online, processed by authorised issuing agencies, and approved certificates are issued electronically with QR codes and digital signatures for seamless verification and customs clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When did the India–Oman CEPA eCoO system become effective?

The electronic filing and issuance of the Preferential Certificate of Origin under the India–Oman CEPA became effective from 1 June 2026, as notified by DGFT Trade Notice No. 06/2026-2027.

2. Which portal should exporters use for applying for the eCoO?

Applications must be submitted through the Trade Connect ePlatform, which serves as the unified platform for electronic Certificates of Origin.

3. Can existing DGFT login credentials be used?

Yes. Existing DGFT website credentials can be used to log in to the Trade Connect ePlatform. A new login is not required.

4. Is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) required?

The Trade Notice provides guidance on linking Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) to IEC profiles and creating additional user accounts where required. Exporters should ensure that their profile details match the DSC for smooth processing.

5. Who issues the Certificate of Origin under the India–Oman CEPA?

The Preferential Certificate of Origin is issued by authorised issuing agencies notified under the India–Oman CEPA after successful review and approval of the application.

6. How can foreign customs authorities verify the authenticity of the Certificate of Origin?

The Trade Connect ePlatform provides a “Verify Certificate” facility that enables authorities to verify the authenticity of the Certificate of Origin using the Certificate Number.

7. Where can exporters seek technical assistance?

Exporters may contact the DGFT Helpdesk through the available toll-free support channels or email coo-dgft@gov.in for assistance relating to the eCoO module.

Conclusion

The introduction of the electronic Certificate of Origin (eCoO) under the India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement is a significant step toward digitising India’s export documentation system. By enabling online applications, QR code-enabled certificates, digital signatures, and electronic verification through the Trade Connect ePlatform, DGFT has simplified the process of claiming preferential tariff benefits for exports to Oman.

Exporters should familiarise themselves with the application process, maintain updated IEC and DGFT profiles, and ensure compliance with the prescribed requirements to avoid delays and fully benefit from the opportunities created under the India–Oman CEPA.

Need Assistance with India–Oman CEPA Compliance?

Obtaining a Preferential Certificate of Origin and ensuring compliance with DGFT procedures can be challenging, particularly for businesses exporting under a new trade agreement.

A V International, with over 35 years of expertise in DGFT consultancy, Import Export compliance, Licensing, and Regulatory Approvals, provides end-to-end assistance for:

• DGFT Compliance
• Import Export Code (IEC) Services
• Certificate of Origin Guidance
• DGFT Documentation
• Foreign Trade Policy Advisory
• Export Compliance Support
• India–Oman CEPA Advisory

Our experienced team helps exporters navigate regulatory requirements efficiently, enabling smoother exports and timely compliance.

Written By

Akash Bhangare

Having more than 10 years of experience in EPR Compliance, Legal Metrology, DGFT Regulations, and Import Export Consulting Services in India.

Associated with A V International, a company with over 35 years of expertise in Environmental Compliance, EPR Registrations, Licensing, DGFT Consultancy, and Regulatory Approvals.