Steps for acquiring an EAC certificate of origin

When trading within the East African Community (EAC), one of the most important documents a business needs is the EAC Certificate of Origin. This certificate confirms that goods being exported are wholly obtained, produced, or sufficiently processed within an EAC member state. With it, exporters can enjoy preferential tariff treatment under the EAC Customs Union Protocol.

In this blog, we will explain what the certificate is, why it is important, and the step-by-step process of acquiring it.

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What is the EAC Certificate of Origin?

The EAC Certificate of Origin is an official document issued by a competent authority in an EAC member country (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and Democratic Republic of Congo).

It proves that goods being traded qualify as originating within the EAC region, allowing them to benefit from duty-free or reduced tariffs when exported to another EAC partner state.

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Why is it Important?

• Access to Preferential Tariffs: Exporters benefit from reduced or zero customs duties.
• Boosts Competitiveness: Makes goods from EAC more attractive to buyers.
• Facilitates Market Expansion: Simplifies entry into regional markets.
• Compliance with Trade Regulations: Ensures goods meet EAC rules of origin.

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Steps for Acquiring an EAC Certificate of Origin

1. Understand the Rules of Origin

Before applying, exporters must ensure that their goods qualify as EAC-originating. The rules of origin determine whether goods are:

• Wholly obtained (e.g., agricultural products, minerals).
• Substantially transformed (manufactured/processed within the EAC).

📌 Tip: Consult your country’s customs authority or chamber of commerce for the specific rules applicable to your product.

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2. Prepare Required Documentation

Exporters need to gather supporting documents such as:

• Commercial invoice.
• Packing list.
• Export declaration form.
• Bill of lading/airway bill.
• Manufacturing records (if applicable).

These documents will be used to verify that goods meet the origin criteria.

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3. Apply Through the Competent Authority

Each EAC country designates institutions that issue the certificate of origin. For example:

• Kenya: Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI).
• Uganda: Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).
• Tanzania: Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).

Exporters must submit an application either online (where available) or in person.

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4. Verification of Goods

The competent authority will verify the origin of the goods. This may include:

• Checking production/manufacturing processes.
• Reviewing supporting documents.
• Physical inspection (in some cases).

This step ensures that only qualifying goods benefit from preferential tariffs.

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5. Issuance of Certificate of Origin

Once approved, the authority issues the EAC Certificate of Origin, usually in a prescribed form that complies with EAC standards.

The exporter must sign and stamp the certificate before presenting it to customs authorities in the importing partner state.

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6. Submission at Customs (Export & Import Clearance)

• At the point of export, the certificate is submitted to customs for endorsement.
• At the importing country’s border, customs uses the certificate to grant preferential tariff treatment.

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How Long Does it Take?

The timeline varies by country and product type. In many cases, the certificate can be issued within 1–5 working days, provided all documents are in order.

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Common Challenges Exporters Face

• Incomplete Documentation: Missing invoices or production records.
• Failure to Meet Rules of Origin: Goods with high foreign content may be disqualified.
• Delays in Verification: Physical inspections can extend processing times.
• Lack of Awareness: Many SMEs are unaware of the benefits of the certificate.

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Final Thoughts

The EAC Certificate of Origin is more than just a piece of paper—it is a gateway to cheaper, faster, and more competitive trade within East Africa. By understanding the steps and ensuring compliance with the rules of origin, businesses can unlock opportunities across the region while saving costs on duties and tariffs.

For exporters looking to expand within the EAC, mastering this process is an essential step toward success.

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