Rules of origin are the criteria used to determine the economic nationality of goods, distinguishing non-preferential origin used for statistics and standard duties from preferential origin used to claim reduced tariffs under trade agreements.
In trade practice
For processed foods exported from Ukraine, origin rules typically require sufficient working or processing, such as a change of tariff heading. Exporters must gather production records and input sourcing data to demonstrate compliance. A common mistake is assuming that packing or simple mixing qualifies as sufficient processing when the applicable product-specific rule requires a tariff heading change. Customs authorities or trade advisers review these records when a preference claim is queried.
In a specification
A contract or purchase order may specify that goods must qualify as originating under the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement and that the supplier must provide valid proof of origin on request.