The introduction of GOTS Version 8.1 brings several important updates for certified organisations across the textile supply chain. To help businesses prepare for the implementation of the new requirements, we have collected several most-asked questions from our customers relating to fibre composition, the Global Fibre Registry, packaging requirements and Transaction Certificates.
Question 1: Is it possible to combine 20% recycled PET bottle polyester fibre and 10% textile-to-textile (T2T) recycled polyester fibre in the same product?
It is not possible to make a GOTS claim for this blend. Different sourcing categories of the same fibre type cannot be mixed in a single product in GOTS Goods. For example, under GOTS Version 8.1 requirement, it is not allowed to mix recycled wool with organic wool, organic cotton with organic in-conversion cotton, virgin polyamide with recycled polyamide. Likewise, recycled polyester obtained from recycling PET bottles cannot be mixed with recycled polyester obtained from textile recycling. Both kinds of polyester (and synthetic fibres at large) have been categorized differently in the Standard.
However, it is possible to blend different fibre types that each meet the applicable GOTS requirements. The key principle is that different categories of the same fibre type should not be mixed, whereas different compliant fibre types may be blended together. For example, a product could contain:
- 70% organic silk + 20% recycled PET bottle polyester (plastic-to-textile recycled polyester) + 10% textile-to-textile recycled wool
- 70% organic cotton + 20% recycled polyester from PET bottles + 10% polyamide (or other permitted non-polyester synthetic fibres from textile to textile recycling.
In above examples, the blend consists of three different compliant fibre types, and this is permitted.
Question 2: For Scope Certificates that are expiring in September 2026, should the renewal certification be done on Version 7 or 8?
In principle, it is possible to start auditing as per GOTS v8.1 already since the Standard and Manual have been published already. However, the factories as well as certification bodies need some time to prepare for the updated criteria. The transition period is till end of Feb 2027. Eurofins Assurance is planning to switch to audits as per GOTS v8.1 from October 2026. The exact date will be communicated shortly.
Question 3: Do the packaging requirements only apply when a product carries the GOTS label?
The packaging requirements are not linked solely to the use of the GOTS logo or on-product labelling, but also linked with product that Transaction Certificate (TC) is requested or GOTS claims are made on invoices, websites, marketing materials or other business documentation. Therefore, even if a product does not display the GOTS logo on its packaging, the relevant packaging requirements may still apply if the product is being sold or represented as GOTS-certified. Please get in touch with your contact at the certification body for a concrete evaluation.
Question 4: Are there any updates or changes to Transaction Certificate (TC) requirements?
Transaction Certificates are governed by the document “Procedure & Template for Issuance of Transaction Certificates – GOTS”. Version 4 was released in May 2026, but effective date if beginning of 2027. It must be understood that version change of the Standard is mostly focused on the technical and / or ESG criteria. The organic textiles processed according to GOTS should be able to obtain GOTS Transaction Certificates.
Question 5: Under GOTS Version 8.1, what changes apply to uncertified brands that use the GOTS logo on their websites?
There are no changes in GOTS approach to uncertified retailers under GOTS v8.1. Retailers that do not engage in B2B trading or relabeling or repair need not become certified. However, such retailers must fill in “Retailer's Declaration for the use of GOTS Signs v 2.0”, available at the link. Other details are available in the document “ Conditions for the Use of Signs – GOTS”.
General points of caution include that a brand that is not GOTS-certified may not present itself in a manner that suggests it is a GOTS Certified Entity. Any reference to GOTS on websites, marketing materials, or product information must accurately represent the certification status of the products and should not mislead consumers.
Question 6: How should textile waste be handled? Should it be separated and recyled based on type of fibres?
GOTS certified companies must develop waste management procedures. They must manage the waste as per Waste Hierarchy and maximise opportunities for prevention, reuse, recycling, and responsible disposal. Furthermore, organic textile waste should be segregated for potential reuse and / or recycling. The requirement is set out in terms of nature of the fibres (i.e., organic) and not on fibre type (e.g., cotton, wool, polyester). However, the experts at Eurofins Assurance consider that it would be good practice to segregate based on fibre types for effective management of textile fibre waste.
Question 7: Are business partners’ existing audit reports (like amfori BSCI) being recognised for GOTS due diligence?
In Manual for Implementation of GOTS v8.1, the references to international standards (e.g., amfori BSCI, WRAP, Fair Wear Foundation) are not available, which were previously available in Manual v7.2. The latest document focuses on GOTS social and human rights criteria as well as OECD Due Diligence Guidance. To conclude, existing reports from social compliance audits may support the system at large, but do not present a direct consideration for GOTS audit or certification.
Question 8: If a farm also operates its own ginning facility, does the farm need to register with the Global Fibre Registry and obtain GOTS certification? How will this affect costs going forward?
Ginning facilities must become GOTS certified regardless of whether the ginning operation is located on or off the farm. Farms also need to register their raw cotton with Global Fibre Registry (GFR) if they want to supply their seed to a GOTS certified gin. There is no fee payable to Global Standards (scheme owner) for this registration. However, the staff at the farm group may have to invest additional time for the documentation.
If you have any questions about GOTS certification, send us an enquiry anytime.