In most countries, chambers of commerce are the key agent in the delivery of certificates of origin. However in some countries, this privilege may also be extended to the other industry groups.

The role of chambers of commerce delivering certificates of origin can be traced back to the 1923 Geneva Convention relating to the Simplification of Customs Formalities (Article 11) (eventually updated by the Kyoto Convention).

Under the Convention, its signatory governments were obliged to make the process and procedures as simple as possible for companies requiring certificates of origin. In addition, it was specified that the State may allow these certificates to be issued by other organizations, “which possess the necessary authority and offer the necessary guarantees” to the State. Thus due to the widespread network of the chamber of commerce community in nearly all countries around the world, and its facility and ease, plus respected reputation of serving the business community, in most countries, chambers of commerce issue certificates of origin.

Companies may consult the WCN Chamber of Commerce Directory (www.worldchambers.com) to find their nearest chamber who may offer this service.