Registered Exporter (REX)
Origin self-certification system based on the registration of exporters in a European Commission database, progressively replacing traditional origin certificates.
Definition and principle
The REX system (Registered Exporter) is a preferential origin self-certification system established by the European Union. Instead of requesting an origin certificate (EUR.1) from customs authorities, registered exporters themselves issue statements on origin on their commercial documents (invoice, delivery note, etc.).
Legal framework
The REX system is governed by articles 69 to 72 of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/2447 and by Regulation (EU) 978/2012 (GSP). It was introduced as part of the EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) from 1 January 2017, then extended to other agreements. EU exporters must register when the value of consignments exceeds EUR 6,000. The REX database is publicly accessible on the European Commission's website.
Practical operation
- The exporter registers with their national customs authorities (in France, the DGDDI) providing information on their activity and exported products
- They receive a REX number which must appear on each statement on origin
- The statement on origin is a declaration with standardised text, placed on a commercial document
- The importing country's authorities can verify the validity of the registration in the REX database online
- Registration can be revoked in case of misuse or inaccurate declarations
Common mistakes
- Issuing statements on origin without being registered or with an expired/revoked REX number
- Not updating information in the REX database (changes in exported products, address, etc.)
- Confusing REX with Approved Exporter (AE) status: REX is specific to the GSP and certain agreements, AE falls under other schemes