CEPA Form-I

CEPA Form-I: Step-by-Step Guide & The 5 Errors to Avoid

Everything you need to file a correct CEPA Form-I for India-UAE shipments — and the 5 common mistakes that get filings rejected.

The 5 Errors That Get Form-I Rejected

1

Wrong HS Code

The HS code on Form-I must exactly match the UAE customs declaration. One digit wrong and CEPA is rejected. Verify the 8-digit code at both ends.

Always verify HS code with a licensed customs agent at both India and UAE end before filing.

2

CoO Not Matching Invoice

The manufacturer certificate of origin must exactly match the commercial invoice: product description, HS code, quantity, and value.

Check invoice and CoO side-by-side before submission. Even minor description differences cause rejection.

3

Form-I Filed After Vessel Departure

Form-I must be filed before or at time of export. Post-shipment CoO is generally not accepted for CEPA preference.

Start Form-I process at booking stage, not after loading. Jazline files within 48 hours of booking confirmation.

4

Incorrect Issuing Authority

Form-I must be issued by an authorized Indian body — APEDA for produce, FIEO for general, EEPC for engineering goods. Self-certification is not valid.

Identify the correct issuing body for your product category before starting the application.

5

Value Threshold Not Met

Some CEPA product categories have minimum local value-add requirements. If the product is not sufficiently 'Made in India', CEPA preference may be denied.

Ensure your Indian manufacturer can demonstrate local content percentage. Jazline verifies this at onboarding.

HS Codes

CEPA HS Codes by Product

ProductHS CodeForm-I IssuerCEPA RateMFN Rate
Alphonso Mangoes08045020APEDA0%5%
Coconuts (husked)08011920APEDA / Coconut Board0%5%
Nashik Onions07031010APEDA0%5%
Nitrile Gloves40151200FIEO / EEPC0%5%
Surgical Gowns62101000FIEO0%5%

Documents Required

What You Need for Form-I Filing

  1. 1Commercial Invoice (CEPA format — includes HS code, value in AED/USD)
  2. 2Packing List
  3. 3Manufacturer Certificate of Origin
  4. 4Bill of Lading (draft acceptable for advance filing)
  5. 5Form-I Application to APEDA/FIEO/issuing body
  6. 6CEPA Authority approval — sent to exporter
  7. 7Provide Form-I reference to forwarder for UAE customs submission

Let Us File Your CEPA Form-I

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