The new web-based application and certification system, built on Public Key Infrastructure and supporting security-related technologies, enables secure and convenient approvals of documents required to authenticate the origin of the goods traded.

Developed by leading IT service provider CrimsonLogic, CertOfOrigin is implemented by four authorised organisations in Singapore: Singapore Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Singapore Confederation of Industries, Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Singapore International Chambers of Commerce.

Currently, exporters submit their applications manually or through the Electronic Certification of Origin system. They are then required to physically collect the certificate of origin from the authorised organisations and thereafter dispatch it manually to their relevant partners.

CertOfOrigin transforms this time-consuming procedure into a complete electronic process to help exporters manage their logistics more efficiently. The existing 121 companies subscribed to the Electronic Certification of Origin system will be migrated to CertOfOrigin by 31 May 2003. Companies that are currently submitting applications manually are encouraged to sign up for this service.

CertOfOrigin brings convenience, lowers man-hours and costs to the trading community, which include exporters, banks, authorised organisations and foreign buyers. The web-based system also allows multiple trading partners to access and download certificates of origin anytime, anywhere.

Speaking on behalf of the Chambers of Commerce, David Chin, Executive Director, Singapore Business Federation, said, "Rapid technological progress has fundamentally changed the way businesses are done. We constantly look out for necessary tools to help our business community secure a competitive edge in the global economy. With CertOfOrigin, businesses can leverage on CrimsonLogic's core competency in technology and the Internet to streamline trade documentation, saving significant amount of time and costs."

CertOfOrigin uses Public Key Infrastructure technology to ensure data security and authenticity. Users are required to use a smartcard to digitally sign an application. When a hardcopy is still required, they can print the certificate of origin at their premise and/or allow copies to be printed by the trading partners concerned. To ensure document originality, CertOfOrigin uses optical watermarks to enable visual authentication of the document and prevent unauthorised reproduction once the document is printed on regular paper via standard laser printers. For better document control, print control is incorporated to ensure only a specified number of prints can be made. In addition, the system will alert the relevant parties when the document has been viewed or printed. These features prevent unauthorised access and copying.

Fullmark Pte Ltd has been using CertOfOrigin to apply for certificates of origin since the service was made available on 15 March 2003. "Since we started using CertOfOrigin, we no longer have to submit numerous supporting documents manually. We can also conveniently transmit the certificate of origin electronically to our partners. This not only gives us cost savings, it also speeds up our turnaround time to our trading partners and customers," said Ms. Jackie Ho, Assistant Vice President of Fullmark Pte Ltd.

For traders who require comprehensive supply chain solutions, a suite of trade and logistics applications is available through TradePalette, an end-to-end trading platform of which CertOfOrigin is a component. CrimsonLogic is a leading trade and logistics solutions provider, specialising in end-to-end managed and hosted service provision.

"In line with APEC's drive towards a paperless trading community and given the current dismal economic conditions, we hope that CertOfOrigin will add zest to the trading scene," said V Mathivanan, Chief Executive Officer of CrimsonLogic. "This service is testament to CrimsonLogic's strong commitment in innovating quality and customer-focused solutions."

On pay-per-use availability, CertOfOrigin provides flexibility to traders with small-volume exports. To register for CertOfOrigin, exporters, third party agents and banks can register with the authorised organisations via www.CertOfOrigin.com.