India is set to roll out strict new labelling rules for apparel and home textiles, boosting consumer transparency and quality standards in the sector.
Under these new rules, manufacturers will be required to provide detailed information on fibre composition, country of origin, and precise care instructions for every garment and home textile item sold within the country.
A Push for Clear Communication
This regulatory shift aims to protect consumers from misleading claims and bring Indian textile labelling practices closer to global benchmarks. Although certain details are already required under current laws, the upcoming mandate will standardize, strengthen, and strictly enforce the inclusion of essential product details on labels.
Key Features of the New Labelling Rules
1. Fibre Composition Disclosure
Labels must specify the exact percentage of all fibres used, listed in descending order. This eliminates confusionāespecially in cases involving synthetic blends or natural fibre mixesāand allows consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.
2. Country of Origin Tagging
Manufacturers will need to clearly mention where the product was made and where its materials were sourced. This requirement not only improves supply chain transparency but also supports buyers who prefer domestically sourced goods or textiles from particular regions.
3. Accurate and Permanent Care Instructions
The labels must carry easy-to-understand and durable care guidelines, covering aspects such as washing temperatures, drying methods, and ironing recommendations. This helps extend product life, reduces damage caused by incorrect washing, and minimizes unnecessary textile waste.
Bringing India Closer to Global Standards
This initiative is aligned with international norms followed in markets like the U.S. (FTCās Textile and Wool Acts) and the European Union. By harmonizing its regulations, India aims to simplify export processes for manufacturers while bolstering the global credibility of Indian textiles.
How Consumers Will Benefit
The new rules promise several advantages for Indian buyers, including:
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Preventing Misleading Marketing: Clear fibre disclosure minimizes the chances of false claims about material quality.
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Supporting Recycling Efforts: Detailed fibre information is crucial for proper textile sorting and promotes sustainability and circular economy goals.
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Improving Product Longevity: With proper care instructions, consumers can maintain their garments and home textiles better, extending their lifespan.
As the industry prepares for this regulatory shift, manufacturers and associations will need to update their sourcing, production, and quality control processes to meet the new standards. Non-compliance may attract penalties, underscoring the governmentās focus on building a strong and transparent consumer protection framework.
News Courtesy : Cloth Textiles