MITI to be sole issuer of certificates of origin for US-bound shipments
The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) will be the sole issuer of all Non-Preferential Certificates of Origin (NPCO) for shipment to the United States with effect from May 6.
In a statement on Monday (May 5), the ministry said this is to address the issue of possible transhipment from certain countries to the US market through Malaysia’s entry and exit points.
“The issuance of NPCO to the US market by business councils, chambers or associations appointed by the ministry, in accordance with the NPCO issuance guidelines established by Miti, will cease immediately.
“Miti will enhance audits on NPCO applicants, investigate and take the necessary action in collaboration with the Customs Department to curb any transhipment offences to the US,” it said.
The ministry added that the government is unequivocally committed to upholding the integrity of international trade practices.
“As such, the government views any attempt to circumvent tariffs through wrong or false declaration, whether related to the value or origin of goods, as a serious offence.”
