The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Version 7.0 has been recognized as one of the most advanced standards for due diligence in the textile sector by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
The non-profit organization behind GOTS, Gold Standard announced, an OECD Alignment Assessment found GOTS Version 7.0 to be highly aligned with the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains in the Garment and Footwear Sector.
Having reviewed 167 criteria, the assessment confirmed, GOTS Version 7.0 addresses all six steps of the OECD Due Diligence Guidance. A significant 68 per cent of criteria were fully aligned, with another 30 per cent partially aligned, and only 2 per cent not aligned. Despite the overall result of being ‘partially aligned’ due to the OECD's stringent methodology, this outcome positions GOTS among the most advanced initiatives assessed to date.
Rahul Bhajekar, Managing Director, Global Standard, emphasizes, the recognition confirms GOTS’ significance as not just a certification, but also a robust tool supporting companies in embedding meaningful due diligence throughout their operations.
The OECD specifically commended GOTS for adopting a comprehensive approach which includes addressing the entire due diligence process, from risk identification and prioritization to mitigation, monitoring, communication, and remediation; defining consistent expectations across labor rights, environmental issues, and supply chain integrity and promoting responsible conduct within both certified companies' own operations and their full supply chains.
Ruslan Alyamkin, Responsible for Standard Development and Implementation (Social Responsibility), Global Standard, notes, the assessment validates GOTS as a system grounded in internationally recognized frameworks and confirms our Due Diligence Framework as an example of best practice in the industry. Aligned with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), the GOTS Due Diligence Framework offers companies a structured, risk-based method for upholding human rights, environmental integrity, and ethical governance throughout the textile value chain.
This recognition builds on GOTS's existing credibility, having already been recognized by organizations like the International Trade Centre, the US Department of Agriculture, and the US Environmental Protection Agency. Claudia Kersten, Managing Director. Global Standard, affirms, OECD recognition assures certified companies, consumers, and regulators alike of GOTS being a proven instrument that supports the cause for sustainability, empowering businesses to thrive while advancing the SDGs.
