A certificate of origin is an official document that states in which country or group of countries a certain product was manufactured. Many countries outside the European Union demand that a certificate of origin is included when importing goods. The rules regarding certificates of origin are laid down in EU legislation. This legislation stipulates exactly under which conditions the origin of goods is determined. The Chambers of Commerce have the task to process requests for certificates of origin and to issue these certificates. A COO is used not only to show cargo has been manufactured in countries which are not under embargo or sanctions, but also to adhere to treaties which may see for example, a reduction in duties.