In June 2026, the European Commission published findings from a market surveillance campaign that tested 132 clothing items across eight EU Member States. Of these, 49 had labels that did not accurately reflect their fibre composition.
The testing identified incorrect fibre percentages, undeclared fibres and discrepancies between labelled and actual materials. Scarves had the highest failure rate, at 80%, followed by tops at 54%.
While these results relate to the products sampled rather than the entire EU market, they highlight the importance of verifying fibre composition and ensuring labels accurately reflect the finished product.
What do businesses need to know?
Under the EU Textile Labelling Regulation (Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011), textile products within scope must meet requirements for fibre names and composition declarations. Businesses should ensure that
Fibre names and percentages are accurate and comply with the Regulation.
Permitted fibre names and applicable labelling requirements are followed.
Composition information meets the relevant language requirements in each target market.
Supplier declarations and product specifications are useful, but businesses should also consider whether their verification processes provide sufficient confidence in the composition of finished products. Testing can help identify discrepancies before products reach the market.
How UKFT can help
UKFT supports members with fibre composition testing and textile labelling compliance, helping businesses verify product composition and understand their obligations across different markets.
Members can contact compliance@ukft.org for support with fibre composition testing and labelling requirements.
UKFT members are eligible for testing discount with UKFT Associate Partner Intertek.
