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The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in 2022 and effective from May 1, 2022, aims to strengthen bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two nations. The India UAE CEPA Certification benefits key industries such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, minerals, textiles, agriculture, jewellery, metals, and manufacturing.
It also facilitates the mutual recognition of professional degrees in fields like engineering, architecture, medicine, nursing, company secretary, and accountancy, enabling professionals to work seamlessly across both countries. Additionally, India’s major imports from the UAE include gold, polymers of ethylene, propylene, and vinyl chloride, jewellery, and copper wire.
CEPA also simplifies trade by providing preferential treatment and customs benefits, reducing tariffs, and making exports more cost-effective. The CEPA certificate, along with the Certificate of Origin (COO), plays a crucial role in certifying goods for duty-free exports, lower tariffs, and better access to service markets. Businesses must obtain the India UAE CEPA Certification to claim these benefits.
The Department of Commerce (India), the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), and the UAE’s Ministry of Economy oversee the issuance of these certificates, ensuring smooth trade operations. Under the agreement, India’s tariff commitments cover 11,908 items, while the UAE’s commitments cover 7,581 items, further enhancing trade relations between the two countries.
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is a type of free trade agreement (FTA) that goes beyond traditional FTAs. It aims to establish a deeper economic partnership between the two countries, covering not just trade in goods but also services, investments, and regulatory cooperation.
CEPA registration allows businesses to trade with partner countries under preferential terms. Exporters of goods and services can benefit from lower tariff rates under this agreement, making trade more cost-effective. To avail of these benefits, exporters must obtain a Preferential Trade Certificate under CEPA, which serves as proof of eligibility for reduced tariffs.
For customs clearance in the importing country, a Certificate of Origin under CEPA is required. Exporters must obtain this certificate from government agencies such as the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), the Spices Board of India, or other designated authorities.
The list of benefits of CEPA registration for exporters is as follows:
The agreement provides immediate duty exemptions for notified products, along with a gradual reduction of duties on imported goods over time. Lower tariffs on trade in goods enhance cost savings and boost economic activity between India and the UAE.
CEPA ensures transparent customs procedures, making it easier for businesses to claim preferential treatment. The agreement also simplifies customs processes, facilitates third-party invoicing for cross-border transactions, and mandates direct transport conditions for availing of preferential origin treatment.
The agreement improves market access for pharmaceutical products and strengthens bilateral cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector, ensuring smooth regulatory approvals and trade expansion in this industry.
CEPA enhances trade agreements between Indian and UAE exporters and importers by eliminating tariffs on various goods, increasing import and export competition. The agreement also stimulates economic growth by simplifying market access, encouraging investment, and fostering innovation. Additionally, India UAE CEPA Certification attracts global investors, expanding industries and creating job opportunities in both nations.
One of the key CEPA benefits for Indian exporters is the duty-free access to UAE markets, allowing businesses to compete globally at lower costs. The agreement also streamlines customs procedures and reduces trade barriers, making it easier for Indian businesses to export their goods.
The agreement encourages cross-border transactions, promoting seamless business operations between the two countries. CEPA also establishes an effective mechanism for joint administration and dispute resolution, ensuring the smooth handling of trade-related concerns.
To qualify for preferential treatment, products must meet specific origin determination rules, including Wholly obtained goods, Change in Harmonized System (HS) classification (chapters, headings, and sub-headings), Value-added criteria for specific products, detailed product information sharing for compliance, etc.
To claim the trade benefits under CEPA, exporters must obtain the CEPA Certificate for exporters, which serves as proof of origin and eligibility for duty exemptions. This certificate is crucial for businesses looking to maximise cost savings and expand their market presence.
CEPA promotes collaboration on technical barriers to trade, enhances information exchange between tax authorities, and commits to the implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) mutual recognition agreement. It also allows temporary admission of specific goods under special circumstances.
The agreement supports business growth by promoting trade opportunities for businesses of all sizes. It ensures fairness in government procurement, encouraging transparency and equitable competition between Indian and UAE enterprises.
A product is considered originating from a contracting country and qualifies for preferential treatment if it meets one of the following conditions: Wholly obtained or produced in the country, such as: For obtaining India UAE CEPA certification, the applicant exporter or importer must comply as per the CEPA agreement that the product originating in a party country must be as per the following criteria: The documents required for India UAE CEPA Certification process are as follows: The India UAE CEPA certification process has several steps, as mentioned below: Application The applicant must apply for the trade agreement certificate through DGFT or any other competent authority by submitting the appropriate application form. Documents Submission The applicant must provide valid information and attach all the necessary documents to verify the product’s origin. Fees Payment After submitting the application, the applicant must pay the required fees to process the request. Verification The issuing authority, using a risk management system, may conduct a pre-export verification of the provided information, including factory visits, if necessary. Certification Once the verification process is successfully completed, the competent authority issues the India UAE CEPA Certificate in the name of the applicant. The responsibilities of exporters under India UAE CEPA certification to ensure compliance are as given below: The list of consequences of non-compliance and penalties on India UAE CEPA certification are as given below: The cost of CEPA certification in India starts from Rs. 708/- (government fee). For professional fees and other details, contact Corpbiz experts. The India UAE CEPA certification is valid for 12 months from the date of issuance. The list of key features of the India UAE CEPA certification is given below: The reasons to trust Corpbiz for India UAE CEPA certification are as given below: Our professionals have extensive experience in international trade laws and CEPA compliance. Our business consultants hold more than a decade of experience in getting India UAE CEPA certification done. We offer expert consultation and guidance to help businesses navigate the CEPA certification process smoothly. Our team provides complete support for preparing and submitting CEPA documentation for UAE trade. We ensure compliance through detailed evaluation and audit of CEPA certification requirements. Our services prioritize transparency, ensuring businesses fully benefit from CEPA trade advantages. We assist businesses in leveraging the India-UAE trade agreement CEPA for hassle-free market access. We use advanced solutions to Get India UAE CEPA Certificate online efficiently. Our experts guide businesses in meeting ongoing CEPA compliance and reporting requirements. We ensure a fast and efficient CEPA certification process to maximize trade benefits. We coordinate with DGFT, customs, and trade bodies to simplify CEPA approvals. Our team provides round-the-clock assistance for all CEPA certification and trade-related queries.
Eligible products for India UAE CEPA Certification
India UAE CEPA Certification- Rules of Origin
Documents Needed for India UAE CEPA Certification Process
Step-by-Step India UAE CEPA Certification Process
Responsibilities of Exporters under India UAE CEPA Certification
Non-Compliance & Penalties on India UAE CEPA Certification
Cost & Validity of India UAE CEPA Certification
Issuing Authority for CEPA Registration for Exporters
S.No.
Issuing Authority
Applicable Product
1.
Export Inspection Council and Export Inspection Agencies
All products
2.
Development Commissioner, Handicrafts and Regional Offices
Handicrafts
3.
Marine Products Export Development Authority and Regional Offices
Marine Products
4.
Spices Board
Spices and Cashew Nuts
5.
Coir Board
Coir and Coir Products
6.
Textile Committee and Regional Offices
Textile and Clothing
7.
Central Silk Board and Regional Offices
Silk Products
8.
MEPZ Special Economic Zone
All products by Units in Madras SEZ and EOUs within its jurisdiction
9.
Kandla Special Economic Zone
All products manufactured by Units in Kandla and Surat SEZs and EOUs within its jurisdiction
10.
SEEPZ Special Economic Zone
All products manufactured by Units in SEEPZ SEZ and EOUs within its jurisdiction
11.
Cochin Special Economic Zone
All products manufactured by Units in Cochin SEZ and EOUs within its jurisdiction
12.
Noida Special Economic Zone
All products manufactured by Units in Noida SEZ and EOUs within its jurisdiction
13.
Vishakhapatnam Special Economic Zone & Falta Special Economic Zone
All products manufactured by Units in Vishakhapatnam SEZ and EOUs within its jurisdiction
14.
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Regional Offices
All Products
15.
Tobacco Board
Tobacco and Tobacco Products
16.
Agricultural and Processed Foods Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
Agricultural Products
Key Features of the India UAE CEPA Certification
Reason to Trust Corpbiz for India UAE CEPA Certification
Expertise in Trade & Compliance
10+ Years of Proven Experience
India UAE CEPA Certificate Consultants
Assistance in Documentation
Evaluation & Audit
Transparency and Authenticity
Smooth Trade Entry
Tech-Driven Solutions
Post-Certification Compliance
Expedited Certification Process
Strong Ties with Government Authorities
24/7 Client Support
Written by Aarya Pokharel. Last updated on Nov 11 2025, 09:55 PM
Aarya Pokharel brings 3 years of solid experience in legal research and compliance. Her expertise spans tax filing, secretarial compliances, and advisory services, with a strong focus on delivering precise legal research and strategic advisory support.
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