GSP Form A

The Generalized System of Preferences Certificate of Origin (GSP Form A) is an official document required under a generalized, non-reciprocal tariff preference scheme granted by developed countries to developing countries for exports of manufactured and semi-manufactured goods. Its full name is 'Generalized System of Preferences Certificate of Origin Form A', and it is issued by a certifying authority authorized by the exporting country's government (such as China Customs or CCPIT). Usage scenarios: When a developing country exports products to a preference-giving country (such as the EU, UK, Japan, etc.), this certificate allows the importer to enjoy GSP tariff preferences lower than the MFN rate. Notes: The certificate must be applied for before shipment or within a specified period after shipment; it must strictly comply with the origin rules of the preference-giving country (such as wholly obtained or substantial transformation criteria); the contents must be consistent with the commercial invoice, bill of lading, etc.; since 2021, the EU and others have removed GSP treatment for China, but some countries still apply it. Difference from other terms: An ordinary Certificate of Origin (CO) only proves origin and is not used for tariff preferences; GSP Form A is specifically used for GSP tariff reduction and follows the fixed UNCTAD uniform format.