The Registered Exporter System (REX) is a simplified certification system introduced by the European Union (EU) to prove the origin of goods exported under the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) and certain Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Effective since 1st January 2017, REX allows exporters to self-certify the origin of their products, eliminating the need for traditional certificates like Form-A issued by government authorities.
With REX Registration, exporters no longer need to rely on government authorities for a Certificate of Origin (like Form-A). Instead, once registered, they can issue their own REX Certificate – also known as a Statement of Origin – directly on invoices or other commercial documents. This statement confirms where the goods were manufactured and qualifies them for preferential duty benefits in the EU.
This system makes the export process to EU countries faster, cheaper, and more efficient, especially for small and medium-sized exporters. To issue these statements, an exporter must first be registered in the REX system by their local competent authority. Thus, the use of this self-certification approach, REX system allows for smoother international trade, reduces paperwork, and improves conformity to EU trade policy.
The REX system enables exporters to certify the origin of their products themselves by issuing a “statement on origin.” It replaces the conventional certificate of origin issued by competent authorities. Exporters who register in this system are referred to as “registered exporters,” and they can present their statements on origin to satisfy the requirements of the EU’s GSP or some FTAs, which offer tariff reductions for imports from developing countries. With REX System, Exporters:
• Self-certification of the origin of goods, where exporters certify the origin themselves.
• A registration procedure whereby exporters can make separate declarations of the origin of goods, making it easier to comply with EU regulations.
• A faster, cheaper method for exporting to the EU and taking advantage of trade agreements.
The REX certificate provides exporters with a simplified process of demonstrating the origin of their product, particularly when shipping to the EU on preferential trade agreements.
The REX Certificate offers various benefits to exporters, particularly those engaged in regular trade with EU countries:
• Ease of Compliance: Exporters do not require constant approval from officials using self-certification, making it less complicated.
• Reduced Costs: Exporters do not pay the costs and charges that come with traditional certification.
• Improved Market Access: Exporters obtain preferential tariffs under GSP and FTAs using self-certification with fewer administrative costs.
• Increased Efficiency: Self-certification enables exporters to avoid delays that normally result from document processing with authorities.
• Smooth Operations: Because the REX system only needs an internet connection, exporters can easily register, file statements, and update information as required.
While India’s Local Administrator for Administrative Cooperation (ADC) hasn’t specified a fixed document list for REX Certification, some Local Administrators have set their own requirements. These may include:
• Import-Export Code
• Importer-Exporter Profile
• PAN Card of Company / Signing Authority
• GST Certificate
• Company Incorporation Certificate
• TIN (as per REX guidelines)
Exporters need to be registered to issue statements of origin under the REX system. This registration is regulated by local competent authorities, who ensure the verification of applications. The REX registration process involves the following steps:
Step 1: Online Application
Exporters must fill out and submit an application form online through the web portal, which includes exporter details and product details.
Step 2: Document Submission
After completing the online application, exporters are required to manually submit the necessary documents to the competent local authorities.
Step 3: Verification
The competent authorities will validate the submitted documents and verify the credentials of the exporter.
Step 4: REX Number Allocation
Upon successful verification, a REX number is assigned to the exporter, enabling them to issue statements on origin of their goods.
REX registration, which allows exporters to self-certify the origin of goods for EU Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) exports, is free of charge and there are no REX Registration Government Fees associated with the registration process. But, if you want professional help to make the process quicker and easier, expert services are available for ₹7,499 as a one-time REX Registration Professional Fee.
Government Registration Fees
Professional Fees
Free of Cost
₹ 7,499 (One-Time)
Competent authorities are responsible for the REX registration process, checking applications, and ensuring compliance. Within the REX system, there are two main types of competent authorities:
• Competent Authority for Administrative Cooperation (ADC): This authority is responsible for coordination with the EU and policies involving the EU’s GSP.
• Competent Authority for Registration (REG): This authority is responsible for the registration process, checking applications, and modifying exporter details.
Every authority has Local Administrators who create Local Users. Exporters deal with Local Users for registration and updates.
Once granted, REX registration is valid for lifetime. There is no expiration date as long as the exporter:
• Continues to meet the eligibility criteria.
• Follow the rules for where your goods come from (rules of origin) under the trade agreement.
• Keep proper records and documents to show during any checks.
• Inform the government if there are any changes in your company details or if you stop exporting.
The REX system has changed the process of exporters certifying the origin of their products so that it can be done in a simpler, quicker, and less expensive way to trade with the EU. Through self-certification, the REX system eliminates most of the old barriers associated with exporting under preferential trade agreements. For exporters, understanding the REX registration process, applying for a REX number, and effectively using the statement of origin are primary steps to properly utilizing this system’s advantages. With increased trade between the EU and developing nations, the REX system is necessary for effective and compliant export operations.
REX – Registered Exporter system. The Registered Exporter system (the REX system) is one of the schemes of certification of origin of goods which is based on the principle of self- certification. The declaration of origin of goods is made by the economic operators themselves by using what is referred to as statements on origin.
In the REX system, a registered exporter has the possibility to certify the origin of goods as preferential. This is done by making a specific declaration in the invoice or any other commercial document used in the exportation of the products.
In case of export to UK, the exporter must be registered in the REX database in order to qualify for the lower tariffs. The REX number is required for exportation of goods that cost more than €6,000. For values lower than the above value, it is not mandatory to register in the REX system.
A: The REX certificate enables exporters to self-certify the origin of its product and facilitate exports to the EU through GSP and some of the FTAs whereby exporters enjoy certain preferential tariffs.
This unique number was incorporated in their commercial documents for products that would fall under EU GSP. The REX number also eliminated the need to send a copy of GSP certificate (GSP Form A) to the importer in order to claim for GSP benefits. Its validity can therefore be confirmed by using the EU REX validation database.
You should submit your REX applications electronically through the specific REX system. It should also be noted that EU Trader Portal can be used to access the REX system. Before registering for REX, you will require the following: A valid Revenue Online Service (ROS) certificate – you need to check and ensure that your ROS certificate is still valid.
DGFT has clarified that REX registration under EU GSP Scheme is entirely free and any exporter should not be charged any fee for REX registration. However, Professionals may charge a fee for the REX registration.
