New GOTS Audit Result Classification Rules: Officially Effective from April 1st
The GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification body's requirements document is about to be implemented. Starting from April 1st, 2026, the assessment results of GOTS audit reports will be uniformly classified into three categories to more clearly reflect the compliance status of the audited entities and clarify the subsequent processing procedures. Enterprises should pay close attention to the new classification rules and make preparations in advance.
The following is the classification description of the new version review results:
| Audit Result Classification | Explanation | Consequences and Timeframe Consequences to be Resolved/Timeframe |
| FULFILLED | No nonconformities were found and no corrective actions are required. | The certification body shall issue the scope certificate within 30 calendar days after the completion of the audit. |
| IMPROVEMENT MEASURES | The auditee of the certification entity partially complies with the standard requirements and only requires minor improvements; the issues are non-systematic and non-repetitive and can be completed in the short term. The auditor must record the improvement items in the report. | The certification body may grant the auditee a maximum of 45 calendar days for rectification. The auditee must submit a corrective action plan within two weeks after the audit. (The relationship between rectification and certification issuance should be clearly stated. |
| NOT FULFILLED (Non-Conformity) |
Non-compliance (Not Meeting Standards) - The standard requirements have not been met, and there are deviations; non-conformities are persistent and systematic, which may affect the integrity of GOTS products. The auditor must record specific non-conformities in the report. If non-conformities are found during the recertification audit, the auditee must submit a corrective action plan within two weeks after the assessment audit. | The certification body will give it a maximum of 90 calendar days for rectification. If the rectification is not completed within the time limit, the certification body must revoke its certification qualification. |
Warm reminder:
Enterprises should attach great importance to the two types of results, namely "improvement measures" and "unmet requirements", respond promptly and submit evidence of rectification. 。
It is recommended to conduct a self-check against the latest GOTS standards in advance to ensure the stable and compliant operation of the system. 。
For more details, please refer to the "Requirements for Certification Bodies" document on the GOTS official website or consult the certification body.
Compliance is no small matter; success or failure lies in the details. Grasp the new regulations and move forward steadily!
About Cotecna Kaixin Certification
Beijing Cotecna Kaixin Certification Co., Ltd. is a third-party certification body accredited by CNAS and ANAB. Focusing on providing certification services covering quality and safety, agri-food products, intellectual property, information security, energy, and sustainability, we have served over 20,000 clients, and remains committed to delivering premium and efficient service to clients, contributing to economic prosperity, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility.