We would like to inform you about the release of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Version 8.0.

According to the recent GOTS Press Release about GOTS Version 8.0:

“Global Standard is pleased to announce the release of GOTS Version 8.0, the latest update to the world’s leading processing standard for organic textiles. The updated Standard strengthens requirements for air emissions and waste management, as well as criteria for product safety. It introduces new provisions on circularity, microfibre management and updates in residue testing. Version 8.0 also elevates due diligence obligations and formalises governance requirements, including ESG disclosure, anti-corruption policies and conflict-of-interest safeguards, to support credible, responsible business conduct. The introduction of mandatory due diligence processes is based on OECD guidelines and provides even greater clarity for companies as they navigate heightening regulatory risks.”

Some of the changes in Version 8.0 include:

• New tools – References to GOTS tools like the Due Diligence Handbook for Certified Entities.
• Updated due diligence requirements – New due diligence criteria help to better align with OECD guidelines.
• Increased worker protections – New criteria to strengthen worker protections to mitigate risks from extreme heat, humidity and other extreme weather conditions.
• Elaborated climate criteria – Clearer requirements strengthen greenhouse gas emissions management, including Scope 1 & 2 inventory, documentation and improvement.
• Strengthened GMO verification – Updated testing references improve confirmation of non-GMO cotton fibres.
• A clear GOTS Manufacturing Restricted Substances List – A dedicated section introduces clearer and stronger requirements for chemical inputs and formulators.
• Enhanced chemical input controls – Stronger chemical management, including clarified limits for free aniline in indigo dyes.
• An endocrine disruptor assessment – New guidance aligns chemical evaluation with EU legislation.
• Stricter PFAS controls – Tightened limits and updated testing significantly strengthen the PFAS ban.
• Circularity requirements – Certified products can now remain within GOTS certification across repair, resale and other circular business models.
• Testing for durability and robustness – Expanded technical quality tests to ensure improved product longevity and compliance of certified final goods.
• New packaging criteria – Comprehensive packaging rules promote recycled content, restrict harmful materials and support alignment with emerging regulations.
• Microfibre controls and monitoring – Risk-based measures are required to address microfibre release during processing and measure fragmentation in the final product.
• Strengthened textile waste management – Clearer requirements improve handling and reduction of textile waste.
• Waste hierarchy guidance – Prioritisation of prevention, reuse, recycling and responsible end-of-life solutions.
• Improved hygiene product safety – New testing and residue rules enhance safety for tampon products.

The Manual for Implementation has also been expanded with better guidance on many requirements, including due diligence, human rights and internal audits.

After the transition period, GOTS Version 8.0 will be fully effective as of March 1, 2027. All inspections performed after March 1, 2027 will be assessing operations against the new standard.

The following related documents should be reviewed upon receipt of this letter:

• GOTS Version 8.0
• Manual for the Implementation of GOTS 8.0
• Change Log GOTS 7.0 to GOTS 8.0
• Change Log Manual for the Implementation of GOTS Version 7.2 to Version 8.0

The Fiber & Textile team at Oregon Tilth has plans to send more information to you soon about the new changes – Stay Tuned!

As a friendly reminder, all requests should be emailed to our team email to ensure it gets entered into our work queue. Please do not send requests to personal emails, as this causes delays. With any questions about this or anything else, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Fiber & Textiles Team at: fibertextile@tilth.org.

Thank you!

Fiber & Textiles Team