GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Form A (APS)

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 22 November 2025

Source: https://unctad.org/topic/trade-agreements/generalized-system-of-preferences

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Logistics Concept

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Definition & Explanation

Form A (GSP) is a preferential certificate of origin under the Generalised System of Preferences, enabling exporters in developing and least-developed countries to claim reduced or zero import duties in preference-granting countries. It travels with the shipment and must be submitted to customs at the port of entry before preferential tariff treatment is applied. An officially authorised body in the exporting country – typically a chamber of commerce or government trade agency – issues the form after verifying that the goods meet the applicable rules of origin. The GSP is a unilateral arrangement: the duty benefit accrues to the exporting country, not to the importer. Several preference-granting countries have moved towards self-certification, gradually displacing traditional Form A in some schemes, though it remains a mandatory document across many active GSP arrangements.

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Calculate customs valueWork out import duties and customs valueOpen Find HS codeDetermine the tariff number for customsOpen Compare IncotermsClarify duties, cost and riskOpen Calculate transit timeEstimate duration per transport modeOpen

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Form A (APS)

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Related Terms

ASEAN Origin Form D

Form AK ASEAN–Korea Origin

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