GOTS Releases Version 8.0 with Stronger Sustainability and Rules for Global Textile Industry

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) has officially released Version 8.0 of its globally recognised organic textile certification, introducing the most comprehensive set of updates to date. Announced on 2 March 2026, the new version will become mandatory for all certified entities and chemical inputs starting 1 March 2027, following a one‑year transition period. However, early adoption is encouraged until GOTS V.8 mandatory enforcement. 

New GOTS Standalone Chapters and Key Updates 

GOTS Version 8.0 brings a major restructuring of the standard, including several new standalone chapters designed to improve clarity and strengthen environmental and social integrity. A new Product Compliance Criteria chapter expands requirements for chemical residues, colour fastness, and dimensional stability, while the newly introduced Circularity of GOTS Finished Goods chapter outlines how repair, alteration and resale can remain compliant within certified supply chains. Packaging rules have also been consolidated into their own comprehensive chapter. 

The standard’s Environmental Management Criteria has been subdivided into specialised sections, with new additions covering textile waste management, greenhouse gas emissions, and microfibre release assessments. Entities will be required to set quantifiable improvement targets for water, energy and chemical usage, while wastewater discharge limits have been more precisely defined. 

In a significant shift, GOTS 8.0 introduces mandatory due diligence requirements, aligned with OECD guidelines. Certified organisations must now implement a structured six‑step due diligence process, maintain responsible business conduct policies, and integrate risk mitigation into daily operations. A new “Due Diligence Handbook for Certified Entities” will support companies in meeting these expectations. 

Chemical management rules have also tightened substantially. A standalone chapter now outlines clear approval criteria for chemical inputs, alongside expanded testing for bisphenols, flame retardants, siloxanes, and PFAS (Per and polyfluorinated alkyl substances). Restrictions on toxic substances including aromatic solvents, endocrine disruptors, and halogenated chemicals have been strengthened. 

Fiber criteria see major changes as well. All organic fibers entering the supply chain must now be listed in the Global Fiber Registry, with strict exclusion of sources linked to labour violations or environmental harm. Common synthetic and conventional fibers including virgin polyester, acrylic, conventional cotton and mulesed wool are explicitly prohibited. 

Social requirements have also been upgraded, including annual living wage gap assessments, stronger protections for occupational health under extreme weather, and clarified expectations around freedom of association. 

With GOTS V8.0, the global textile industry faces a higher bar for environmental, sustainability, governance, and product integrity, marking a pivotal moment for brands and manufacturers committed to responsible production. 

Partner with Cotecna for a Smooth Transition to GOTS Version 8 

With the updated requirements for GOTS, Cotecna is uniquely positioned to support businesses through this transition. Our extensive expertise in organic textile certification and a worldwide network of accredited auditors, enables us to provide end‑to‑end services including GOTS certification audits, supply chain traceability assessments and due diligence implementation support. 

Cotecna technical specialists are ready to guide clients through the new Version 8.0 requirements ensuring compliance, reducing operational risks and strengthening sustainability performance across the value chain.  

By partnering with Cotecna, you can achieve a smoother transition process while demonstrating credible commitment to meeting the requirements of GOTS certification. 

For more information on this update or Cotecna GOTS Certification services, please contact us. 

About Cotecna

For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.