What are the specific requirements for suppliers and products regarding GOTS certification?

December 17, 2025

Detailed Explanation of Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Certification Specifications
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is an internationally leading standard for organic fiber textile processing, providing an independent certification basis for the entire textile supply chain. This standard was developed by an international working group and sets clear mandatory requirements for product composition, processing procedures, and social responsibility. It is applicable to the processing, manufacturing, packaging, labeling, trade, and distribution stages of textiles containing at least 70% certified organic natural fibers, covering textile finished products, yarns, fabrics, clothing, and home textile products, but excluding leather products.
I. Specifications and Factory Inspection Requirements for Suppliers under GOTS Certification
Any entity engaged in textile processing, manufacturing or trading can apply for GOTS certification. The applicant must contact a GOTS-accredited certification agency and, based on factors such as the scope of business, scale and location, arrange the corresponding factory inspection and testing procedures.
The certification application and factory inspection process includes:
Select a GOTS accredited certification body, submit the application and estimate the certification cost.
Accept factory inspections and quality checks within the following scope of business:
Textile machinery processing and manufacturing (Scope 1)
Textile wet treatment and processing (Scope 2)
Trading business and related products (Scope 3)
Through on-site factory inspections arranged by the institution, a comprehensive assessment is conducted on the production environment, management system and the implementation of social responsibility of the factory.
After the factory inspection is completed, the certification body will issue the certification certificate. The enterprise can then use the GOTS label on the products that meet the requirements.
II. Key Points of Product Specification and Inspection for GOTS Certification
The inspection of products under GOTS covers all stages from raw materials to finished products, ensuring they meet both ecological and social responsibility standards.
1. Fiber source verification:
Organic fibers that have been certified in accordance with international or national standards (such as EU 834/2007, USDA NOP) must be used.
Fibers in the conversion stage are permitted to be used (if permitted by relevant agricultural standards).
The classification of finished product labels is strict: The "organic" grade must contain at least 95% certified organic fibers, and the "containing organic" grade must contain at least 70% certified organic fibers.
2. Inspection during processing and manufacturing:
Environmental management inspection: This includes wastewater treatment, energy usage, chemical management, etc., to ensure compliance with the GOTS environmental standards.
Technical quality and toxicity testing: Conduct tests on the dyes, additives, etc. used, and prohibit the use of toxic and harmful substances.
Social Responsibility Factory Audit: It must comply with the minimum social standards stipulated by GOTS, including labor rights, working hours and wages, health and safety, etc., and ensure continuous compliance through regular factory audits.
Summary
The GOTS certification is a comprehensive factory inspection and quality control system that runs throughout the supply chain. Through on-site factory inspections of suppliers and systematic product inspections, it ensures that textiles from raw materials to finished products all meet strict organic ecological and social responsibility standards. By obtaining this certification, enterprises can effectively enhance the credibility and market competitiveness of their products, and meet the growing demand of global consumers for sustainable textiles.