This Decision amends the Regional Convention on pan-Euro-Mediterranean preferential rules of origin regarding the electronic issuance of movement certificates. It establishes a legal framework for the transition from paper-based to electronic movement certificates in preferential trade between Contracting Parties. The Decision is aimed at maintaining and formalizing the successful digital practices that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic.The Decision consists of two main articles and an Annex. Article 1 introduces amendments to Decision No 1/2023, effective from January 1, 2025. The Annex contains specific modifications to Article 17 of Appendix I of the Convention, outlining the conditions for electronic movement certificates.The key provisions include:
- Authorization for Contracting Parties to establish systems for electronic issuance and submission of proofs of origin
- Requirements for electronic movement certificates:
- Must be based on the specimen in Annex IV
- Must be verifiable through a secure online system
- Must have unique serial numbers and security features
- Implementation dates must be published in the EU Official Journal
- Right of Contracting Parties to suspend acceptance of electronic certificates if requirements are not met
- Obligation to inform other parties about such suspension through the Joint Committee secretariat
