Mandatory Labeling and Marking Standards in the Textile Sector
The textile industry has to comply with certain standards in order to compete in the global market. Labeling and branding of products in accordance with legal requirements ensures both the correct information of consumers and the transparency of the supply chain. In this article, mandatory labeling and marking standards in the textile industry, relevant legislation and how businesses can comply with these rules will be discussed.
What is Compulsory Labeling of Textile Products?
Labeling for textile products is an important practice that enables consumers to make informed purchases. Labels should include details such as product content, care instructions, manufacturer information and compliance standards. Mandatory labeling varies from country to country, but generally covers the following elements:
Fiber Content: The materials from which the product is made should be specified (For example: 100% Cotton, 50% Polyester – 50% Cotton)
Washing and Care Instructions: There should be symbols indicating how the product should be washed and protected.
Origin Information: The name of the country of manufacture must be indicated (such as “Made in Turkey”).
Manufacturer or Importer Information: The brand name and contact information of the manufacturer or importer must be on the label.
Size Information: Especially in clothing products, size measurements should be clearly stated.
Standard and Safety Certificates: There should be certificates or marks indicating that the product complies with certain safety standards (such as OEKO-TEX, GOTS).
International Textile Labeling Standards
International standards for textile products aim to protect consumers while increasing transparency in the global market. Some of the most widely used standards include:
ISO 3758: An international standard for textile care symbols and instructions.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Verifies that the product is free of harmful chemicals.
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): An international standard for organic textile products.
REACH Regulation: Requires textile products sold within the European Union to be safe in terms of chemical content.
Textile Labeling Regulation in Turkey
In Turkey, labeling and branding of textile products is supervised by the Ministry of Industry and Technology and the Ministry of Trade. Some of the important legislation in force in Turkey are as follows:
Law No. 6502 on Consumer Protection
Ministry of Customs and Trade Regulation on Labeling of Textile and Apparel Products
TS EN 14682 Standard: Covers the regulation of ropes and cords that pose a risk of strangulation in children’s clothing.
TS EN 14878 Standard: Contains safety rules for flame retardant textile products.
Marking and Tracking Systems
Marking and product tracking is as important as labeling in the textile industry. Marking should include the serial number, production date and other tracking information. These systems provide the following advantages:
Anti-Counterfeiting: The authenticity of the products can be verified.
Supply Chain Management: The journey of products from production to the consumer can be tracked.
Recall Processes: Recalls can be made easier when product defects are detected.
Advanced marking systems include:
Barcode and QR Code Systems: Provides quick access to product information.
RFID Technology: Simplifies inventory tracking and supply chain management.
Digital Identities: Blockchain-based digital identities increase sustainable production and transparency.
Best Practices for Labeling and Marking in the Textile Industry
It is recommended that textile companies follow the steps below to ensure full compliance with legal requirements for labeling and marking:
Follow Current Legislation: Regularly check national and international labeling requirements.
Use Labeling in Accordance with Standards: Provide complete information on fiber content, washing instructions and origin.
Benefit from Digital Branding Technologies: Streamline product tracking with QR codes and RFID systems.
Act in accordance with Sustainability Standards: Choose organic and recyclable materials.
Emphasize Consumer Information: Ensure that labels are readable and understandable.
Complying with mandatory labeling and marking standards in the textile sector is not only a legal requirement, but also a strategy to increase customer confidence. With the right labeling, consumers can make informed purchases and manufacturers can protect their brand values. It is possible to gain competitive advantage in the global market by complying with international standards.
