What is a manufacturer's statement of origin?

A manufacturer's statement of origin, otherwise known as a manufacturer's certificate of origin, is defined as a document that states in which country a product was manufactured. The consulate of the destination country is sometimes required to sign the manufacturer's statement or certificate of origin.

Countries often require certificates of origin for goods imported due to preferential and detrimental treatment among trading nations. For instance, a country might charge high tariffs to one country while charging no tariff or smaller tariffs to another country. Customs agents can determine fees applicable to shipments of goods by using a manufacturer's certificate or statement of origin.