Certificate of Origin Guidance
Simplifying Export Documentation
Clear Guidance for African Exporters
Make in Africa helps exporters understand the Certificate of Origin process and refers them to the authorised chamber, customs authority or export body in their country. We do not issue certificates. We help you get the paperwork right, which matters more as AfCFTA trade grows.
Get Started: Write to us through the form and we will point you to the right issuing authority for your country and shipment.
About the Certificate of Origin
A Certificate of Origin is a key export document. It states where goods were made or processed. In each country it is issued by an authorised body, such as a chamber of commerce, an export promotion agency or the customs authority.
Make in Africa does not issue these documents. We explain what is needed and refer exporters to the authorised issuer, so the right documentation is in place for smooth trade, including trade under AfCFTA rules of origin.
Why Ask Make in Africa About Origin Documents?
Practical Knowledge
- We know the export paperwork and who issues what in each market.
Clear Next Steps
- Ask the issuing body how quickly it works once your documents are complete.
Dedicated Support
- Our team helps members and exporters find the right office at every step.
Typical Procedure
Before You Apply:
Exporters are usually asked to prepare the following by the issuing body:
- Any indemnity or bond the issuer requires, on the form it specifies.
- Any registration fee the issuer charges to non-members.
- Collecting the issuer’s forms and submitting the required documents, including:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Shipment Proof (e.g., Bill of Lading, Airway Bill, or Road Waybill)
Fees
| Description | Who sets the fee | Where to check |
| Certificate of Origin | Issuing authority | Official fee schedule |
| Exporter’s invoices | Issuing authority | Official fee schedule |
| Packing list | Issuing authority | Official fee schedule |
| Other declarations | Issuing authority | Official fee schedule |
| Typing of certificate | Issuing authority | Official fee schedule |
| Amendments | Issuing authority | Official fee schedule |
| Supply of extra sets | Issuing authority | Official fee schedule |
| Visa letters | Embassy or consulate | Official fee schedule |
| Invitation letters | Host organisation | Official fee schedule |
| Document attestation | Issuing authority | Official fee schedule |
Note: Make in Africa does not set or collect these fees. Local taxes may apply.
Payment Arrangements
Some issuing bodies offer account or credit arrangements for frequent exporters. Ask your authorised issuer whether this is available:
Ask whether a ledger account can be opened with a deposit.
Ask whether charges are debited with each transaction to save time.
Related Support
Visa and Travel Letters:
Make in Africa does not issue visas or visa letters. We can introduce members to their chamber and point them to the embassy or consulate that handles visas. Documents usually needed include:
- Application on company letterhead.
- Passport details and purpose of visit.
- Invitation letter copy.
Ready to simplify your export documentation? Let Make in Africa point you to the right issuing authority in your country. Write to us through the form today.
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The Make In Africa Global Summit (MIAGS) is a global platform connecting leaders, businesses, investors, institutions and policymakers shaping the next era of economic growth across the Global South and Africa.
MIAGS advances South–South cooperation, trade, investment, industrialization, technology, infrastructure and economic resilience, creating platforms for dialogue, strategic partnerships and cross-border opportunities.
Our mission is to strengthen the Global South and Africa’s role in the global economy by connecting capital with opportunity, innovation with markets and economic priorities with action—while fostering a more connected, productive and influential economic future.