CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN AND ITS RELEVANCE IN FOREIGN TRADE: IMPACTS ON MERCOSUR INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the relevance of the Certificate of Origin in foreign trade, focusing on its impacts on Mercosur's international agreements. The study sought to understand how this instrument contributes to regional economic integration, the strengthening of production chains, and the competitiveness of member countries. The research adopted a qualitative and exploratory approach, based on bibliographic and documentary analysis, using official sources from the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services (MDIC), the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI), and recent academic publications. The results showed that the Certificate of Origin is an essential element for the application of tariff preferences and for ensuring legal certainty in intra-bloc operations. It was also verified that the implementation of the Digital Certificate of Origin (COD) represents significant progress in customs modernization, promoting greater agility, cost reduction, and transparency. However, challenges remain related to regulatory standardization and system interoperability among member countries. It is concluded that the harmonization of regulations and investment in technology are fundamental for strengthening the certification system and consolidating trade integration within Mercosur.