AGOA Textile Visa Documents

To engage in AGOA trade successfully, Ugandan exporters need to be well-versed in the essential export documents required to meet the eligibility criteria and comply with U.S. regulations. Here’s an overview of the key export documents required for AGOA trade:

1. Commercial Invoice:

A commercial invoice is a crucial document for any international trade, including AGOA. It serves as a billing statement sent from the exporter (seller) to the importer (buyer) and is used for customs clearance and payment purposes. The commercial invoice for AGOA trade should include:

• Complete Name and Address: Include the full names and addresses of the buyer, seller, and manufacturer.
• Product Description: Provide a detailed description of the exported products, including quantities and Harmonized System (HS) codes.
• Total Value Per Item: Specify the total value per item or unit.
• Country of Origin: Clearly state the country of origin, along with the reason for export.
• Certification Statement: Include a statement and signature certifying that the invoice is accurate and true.

2. Bill of Lading:

The bill of lading is a vital transport document that serves as evidence of the contract of carriage between the shipper (exporter) and the carrier (shipping company). It includes details about the goods being shipped and is essential for proving ownership and taking possession of the goods. Key points to note:

• There are two types of bill of lading: a straight bill of lading (non-negotiable) and a negotiable (shipper’s order) bill of lading, which can be bought, sold, or traded while goods are in transit.
• For air shipments, the equivalent document is known as an airway bill.

3. Export Packing List:

An export packing list provides details about the contents of each package being shipped. It specifies the material in individual packages and shows their net, legal, tare, and gross weights in both U.S. and metric values. This document is typically attached to the outside of the package in a waterproof envelope. It is useful for customs officials to check consignments at inspection points.

4. Certificate of Origin:

A certificate of origin is a critical document that indicates where the exported products were manufactured, produced, or grown. It is essential for AGOA trade as it ensures that products originating in certain countries receive preferential treatment. Key points:

• The certificate of origin is usually issued by the exporting country’s state agencies.
• It includes information such as contact details for the importer, exporter, and producer, the basis for which preferential treatment is claimed, and a description of the imported merchandise.
• Importers are required to have this certificate in their possession at the time of the claim and provide it to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers upon request.

5. AGOA Textile Visa (Textiles Certificate of Origin):

For textile and apparel exports under AGOA, the AGOA Textile Visa, also known as the Textiles Certificate of Origin, is a critical document. It certifies that the products meet the requirements for AGOA eligibility. Key points:

• To obtain an AGOA Textile Visa, textile and apparel exporters need to ensure their products meet specific criteria, including rules of origin.
• The visa is typically issued by the relevant authorities in the exporting country.
• Exporters should ensure compliance with AGOA rules related to textiles and apparel to qualify for this visa.

These essential export documents are fundamental to AGOA trade, enabling Ugandan exporters to access the benefits of duty-free access to the U.S. market. It’s crucial to prepare and maintain these documents accurately and in accordance with AGOA requirements to ensure a smooth and compliant export process.