In the fast-paced world of global fashion, a small piece of fabric, the clothing label – acts as a legal passport for textile products. Textile labelling regulations are the backbone of international trade compliance, ensuring consumer safety, transparency, and fair competition. For manufacturers and exporters, a single labeling error can result in massive fines, shipment seizures, or irreversible brand damage. As we move into 2026, staying ahead of evolving standards like the EU’s Digital Product Passport and stricter flammability rules is essential. This comprehensive 1,500-word guide from Dugarco provides everything you need to know about garment labeling in major global markets.
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1. The Vital Role of Textile Labelling Regulations in Global Trade
Why is a label more than just a brand logo? From a legal standpoint, textile labelling regulations serve three primary functions: consumer protection, information transparency, and legal accountability. Every major economy – be it the US, EU, UK, or Canada – has established strict laws to ensure that when a consumer buys a garment, they know exactly what fibers were used, where it was made, and how to maintain its longevity without risk.
For a clothing manufacturer like Dugarco, compliance isn’t just about following rules; it’s about building trust with international buyers. In an era where sustainability and ethical sourcing are under the microscope, the label is often the first place auditors and conscious consumers look to verify a brand’s claims.
2. United States: Navigating FTC and CBP Compliance
The US market is one of the most strictly regulated in terms of textile labelling regulations. Two main agencies oversee this: the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
2.1. The Fiber Content Rule
Under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act, you must list the generic names and percentages by weight of each fiber in the garment.
- The 5% Rule: Fibers that make up less than 5% of the total weight can be listed as “Other Fibers.” However, if the fiber has a functional role (like Spandex for elasticity or Wool for warmth), it must be named even if it constitutes only 1%.
- Terminology: Only generic fiber names approved by the FTC (e.g., Cotton, Polyester, Rayon) are permitted. Trade names (e.g., Lycra) can be used but only alongside the generic name.
2.2. Country of Origin (COO)
The CBP is particularly rigorous about COO. The origin must be stated clearly, and the rules are specific:
- Made in USA: Only if the product is all or virtually all made in the US with domestic materials.
- Imported: If the garment was sewn abroad, it must state “Made in [Country].”
- Hybrid Origin: If a garment is sewn in the US but uses imported fabric, the label must state “Made in USA of Imported Fabric.”
2.3. The RN (Registered Identification Number)
The FTC issues an RN to US-based businesses. While it is not mandatory to have an RN (you can use your company’s legal name), it is highly recommended as it takes up less space on the label and helps in brand identification within the FTC database.
3. European Union & Germany: Regulation (EU) 1007/2011
Entering the EU market requires adherence to Regulation (EU) 1007/2011. Unlike the US, the EU focuses heavily on linguistic accessibility and the permanence of labels.
3.1. Language Requirements
Textile products sold in the EU must be labeled in the official language(s) of the Member State where they are marketed. For example, if a Dugarco garment is sold in Germany, the label must be in German. This often leads to “multi-language” long labels common in European fashion.
3.2. Mandatory vs. Optional Info
- Mandatory: Fiber composition is the only EU-wide mandatory requirement on the permanent label.
- Optional but Recommended: Interestingly, “Country of Origin” is optional for most textile products within the EU (unless its absence would mislead the consumer), but highly encouraged for brand transparency.
- Care Instructions: While not mandatory under EU law, they are effectively mandatory in Germany because manufacturers can be held liable for product damage if care instructions aren’t provided (under the Product Liability Act).
3.3. The Digital Product Passport (DPP) Trend
By 2026, the EU is moving toward the Digital Product Passport. This means physical labels might eventually be supplemented by a QR code that provides detailed information about sustainability, recyclability, and chemical usage.
4. United Kingdom: The Post-Brexit Landscape
Since leaving the EU, the UK has maintained similar textile labelling regulations but with specific enforcement through the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) framework.
4.1. Flammability Warnings (BS-5722)
One of the UK’s most critical requirements is the “Keep Away From Fire” warning. For children’s nightwear and specific adult garments, this text must be in 10-point bold red Arial font. This is a non-negotiable safety standard enforced by the Department for Business and Trade.
4.2. Fiber Name Compliance
The UK utilizes the “Textile Products (Labelling and Fibre Composition) Regulations.” It mirrors the EU in many ways but requires businesses to ensure that all terms used for fibers are the exact English generic terms recognized in British law.
5. Canada: The Textile Labelling Act
Canada’s Competition Bureau oversees labeling. The hallmark of Canadian textile labelling regulations is the bilingual requirement.
5.1. Bilingualism: English and French
In Canada, all mandatory information (fiber content and dealer identity) must be in both English and French. The only exception is for dealers located in the Province of Quebec, where French may take precedence.
5.2. The CA Number
Similar to the US RN, Canada uses the CA Number. Only Canadian dealers (manufacturers, processors, or importers) can obtain a CA Number. Foreign manufacturers like those in Vietnam must use the Canadian importer’s CA Number or legal name.
6. Sustainability Certifications: GOTS, OEKO-TEX, and GRS
In 2026, a label isn’t complete without addressing sustainability. While these aren’t always “laws” in the sense of government regulations, they are “market standards” that are often more important to buyers.
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): Requires specific labeling for organic content (e.g., “Organic” vs. “Made with X% Organic”).
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Verifies that the garment is free from harmful chemicals. The label must include the specific certificate number and the testing institute.
- GRS (Global Recycled Standard): Tracking the percentage of recycled content.
7. Common Pitfalls in Textile Labelling
Through our decades of experience at Dugarco, we’ve identified the most common mistakes that lead to compliance failure:
- Incorrect Fiber Math: The total fiber weight must add up to exactly 100%.
- Non-Permanent Attachment: Labels must be securely attached so they stay on the garment until it reaches the consumer.
- Illegible Font Size: Most countries require at least 1/16 of an inch (1.5mm) height for mandatory text.
- Missing Care Symbols: While symbols are great, some countries (like the US) still require written care instructions alongside them.
8. Why Partner with Dugarco for Your Export Needs?
Navigating the labyrinth of textile labelling regulations is a full-time job. At Dugarco, we take this burden off our clients’ shoulders. Our dedicated QC and legal compliance teams ensure that every garment leaving our Vietnam facilities is perfectly labeled for its destination market.
Whether you are a startup in London or a major retailer in New York, we provide:
- Pre-production label verification.
- Automatic compliance with ISO, FTC, and EU standards.
- Expertise in bilingual and multi-language labeling.
9. FAQs About Textile Labelling Regulations
9.1. Is Country of Origin mandatory for all countries?
No. While mandatory in the US, Canada, and Australia, it is technically optional in some EU member states. However, it is universally recommended to avoid trade disputes.
9.2. Can I use a QR code instead of a physical label?
Not yet. Current textile labelling regulations in almost all countries require fiber content and care instructions to be physically attached to the garment. QR codes can only be used for supplemental information.
9.3. What happens if my labels are wrong?
Common penalties include “Red-tagging” (shipment held at customs), mandatory re-labeling (very expensive), or heavy financial penalties from agencies like the FTC.
Mastering textile labelling regulations is a competitive advantage in the apparel industry. It ensures your products move swiftly through customs and arrive in the hands of consumers safely. If you’re looking for a manufacturing partner that prioritizes quality and compliance, Dugarco is here to help!
Contact Information:
- Address: 59 Duc Giang, Long Bien, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Phone: 024 3655 7930
- Email: dugarco@mayducgiang.com.vn
- Website: https://dugarco.com/en/
Dugarco under the talented leadership and guidance of Mr. Hoang Ve Dung has gradually become a large Vietnam clothing manufacturer, supplying clothes for many famous brands from many different countries such as the UK, USA, and Australia.
4 Responses
What should appear on textile labels?
Different countries may have specific labeling requirements, but generally, textile labels should include the following information: fiber content, care instructions, country of origin, size, manufacturer or brand name, RN or WPL number (in the U.S.), textile quality certifications, and flammability warning.
What are EU regulations for textiles?
The European Union (EU) has updated some key regulations including: REACH Regulation (EC) , Textile Regulation, General Product Safety Directive, EU Ecolabel for Textiles, Oeko-Tex Standard 100, Biocidal Products Regulation