What Is Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)?

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the worldwide leading textile processing standard for organic fibers through covering social, chemical and environmental requirements in every stage of processing units.

The objectives of GOTS:

The aim of this Standard is to define requirements to ensure organic status of textiles, from harvesting of the raw materials, through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing up to labelling in order to provide a credible assurance to the end consumer.

The GOTS is intended for use with any product that contains at least 70% organic natural fiber. Each stage of production is required to be certified, beginning at the processing stage and ending at the last seller in the final business-to-business transaction.

The GOTS Certification Process:

Application and contract

You can apply online for the GOTS Certification or complete the Application form and return it to GCL International Ltd. head office or one of our local office. We will use the application details to produce a quotation.

Once the quotation has been accepted, we will ask you to return a signed copy of the quotation and our Scheme Rules.

Preparation for the Initial GOTS Certification Audit

The following documents are supplied prior to the initial certification:

• Briefing information about the GOTS Standard;
• Standard and Implementation Manual;
• Document checklist;
• Inspection report which includes inspection checklists, list of suppliers and subcontractors.

Initial certification audit

• Opening meeting
• On-site Audit
• Preparation of Audit Report (including Findings)
• Closing meeting

Following the completion of the inspection, a report detailing the findings is provided. Subject to the closure of any non-conformances or findings (if any), a Scope Certificate is issued.

Labelling Release

Whenever the client wishes to have its artwork approved, the proposed artwork and Labelling Release form shall be submitted to GCL International for approval.

Transaction Certificate

• The certified client may request a Transaction Certificate by emailing us;
• Send a Transaction Certificate Request form and associated documents to us;
• If approved by us, the Transaction Certificate is issued to the client.

Re-assessment or Annual Audit

• GCL International will communicate with the client to plan for the re-audit and to determine if there has been any changes, such as: production units, subcontractors, recipes or new suppliers. An audit report must be completed by the client and returned to us;
• GCL International will conduct the re-audit;
• Following the completion of the audit, a report detailing the findings is provided. Subject to the closure of any non-conformances or findings (if any), a certificate with GOTS labelling is issued.