G.4-Korea Rules of Origin Korea FTA Rules of Origin
U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement
Rules of Origin
Determining Whether Product Exports are Eligible for Preferential Treatment under the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS)
The information provided here provides general guidance on how to locate the relevant rules of origin and determine whether your product may qualify for a reduced tariff (or “duty”) benefit under KORUS. Special rules apply for textile and apparel products and certain agricultural and industrial products.
Only the Korean Customs Service can definitively determine whether a product qualifies for preferential treatment, and official advance (prospective) rulings can be requested from them prior to exportation. Additional information can be found at the Korean Government sponsored USKoreaConnect.org, through their hotline at info@USKoreaConnect.org or by contactinng your local International Trade Specialist.
Rules of origin (ROOs) are used to define which products may qualify for preferential tariff rates under a trade agreement. These rules vary by trade agreement and product. As a general matter, the importer is responsible for claiming preferential treatment from the importing country’s customs authority.
Below are five basic steps to ascertain whether your export may qualify for the FTA-negotiated preferential tariff rate (FTA rate) under KORUS:
- Determine your product’s tariff classification.
- Determine whether there is an advantage to claiming preferential treatment.
- Identify the Rule of Origin under KORUS.
- Document origin.
- Keep records.
Additionally, make sure that you are permitted to export your product and that your product complies with U.S. export licensing requirements and regulations, as well as with the foreign regulations and standards of Korea.
For more information check video and article on U.S. Free Trade Agreements.
For questions relating to customs requirements for importing into the United States under KORUS, please refer to U.S. Customs and Border Protection or contact CBP at fta@dhs.gov.
Prepared by the International Trade Administration. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the International Trade Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.
Prepared by the International Trade Administration. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the International Trade Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.