In an pivotal effort to optimize the certification process for pharmaceutical exporters, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has introduced the upgraded eCoO 2.0 platform. This enhanced system is designed to simplify the process for issuing Preferential Certificates of Origin (CoO) and is anticipated to significantly increase India’s pharma export capabilities as global demand for Indian medicines continues to surge.
Set to launch on December 21, 2024, the improved eCoO 2.0 platform brings several new functionalities aimed at increasing efficiency and user-friendliness. It provides features like multi-user access, Aadhaar-based e-signature capabilities, an integrated dashboard, and further digitization of cost sheet submissions. This updated platform is designed to streamline the export process while offering access to vital trade data, Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), and pertinent trade events.
Significant Features of eCoO 2.0 Include:
– Multi-User Access: Allows exporters to appoint multiple users under a single Importer Exporter Code (IEC), thus enhancing flexibility in managing the certification workflow.
- E-Signature Options: Provides an option for using Aadhaar-based e-signatures in addition to conventional digital tokens.
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Integrated Dashboard: Serves as a consolidated platform for easy access to CoO certifications, FTA information, and trade services.
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Cost Sheet Digitization: Offers exporters the ability to prepare and electronically submit cost sheets, cutting down on paperwork and boosting efficiency.
The rollout of this new system is a strategic move toward enhancing India’s competitiveness in global trade, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, which remains among the country’s leading export industries.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry highlights that the new system will not only cut down on time and costs tied to obtaining a CoO but also speed up pharmaceutical product clearances at international crossings.
The switch from the existing eCoO system to the eCoO 2.0 system will be phased. Starting December 21, 2024, all new Preferential CoO applications must be processed via the new eCoO 2.0 system.
Data Migration Assurance: All previous data, encompassing non-preferential and preferential CoOs, alongside e-wallet balances, will be transferred to the new system following the successful stabilization of the preferential CoO procedure.
Application Continuity: Applications submitted prior to December 20, 2024, will continue under the existing eCoO 1.0 system.
Exporters don’t need new accounts for the eCoO 2.0 system. Existing DGFT website credentials can be used to access the platform. However, unregistered exporters must register on the DGFT site for new applications post-December 21, 2024.
Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), along with trade and industry associations, and DGFT Regional Authorities, will be crucial in ensuring a seamless transition to the eCoO 2.0 system. These entities will lead outreach programs to educate exporters on the new features of the platform and help them acclimate.
DGFT Regional Authorities will manage data migration and ensure that the updated system satisfies pharma exporters’ demands, which depend greatly on accurate trading documentation.
Additionally, the eCoO 2.0 system will introduce an e-wallet function, enabling exporters to handle payments for certificates directly within the platform. Managed at the office level by authorized agencies, this feature will streamline payment procedures for exporters.
The new system offers real-time validation and verification of CoO certificates, ensuring enhanced transparency and reducing fraud risks.
To prepare exporters and stakeholders for the transition, the DGFT is dedicated to hosting Exporter Outreach Programs and providing extensive resources, such as user guides and FAQs, on the eCoO 2.0 website. The CoO Helpdesk will also be available to tackle any queries or technical challenges.