The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) will assume the full control over the issuance of Non-Preferential Certificates of Origin (NPCO) for all exports destined for the US, effective May 6, 2025.
Under the new directive, MITI will be the sole issuer of NPCOs for the US, revoking the authority previously granted to various business councils, chambers, and trade associations.
This sweeping policy change comes amid growing concerns over the misuse of Malaysia’s export channels as a transshipment route for goods originating from countries facing higher tariffs in the US market.
“The MADANI Government is fully committed to upholding the integrity of international trade practices.
“Any attempt to circumvent tariffs through false declarations of value or origin is considered a serious offence,” MITI stated
The announcement signals Malaysia’s proactive stance in aligning with international trade standards and reinforcing its reputation as a reliable trading partner. The move also seeks to strengthen Malaysia’s compliance with US trade enforcement priorities amid intensifying global scrutiny on trade fraud and origin manipulation.
In tandem with centralising the certificate issuance process, MITI will also intensify its audit mechanisms on NPCO applicants and work closely with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department to investigate and prosecute transshipment offences.
