Oeko-Tex sees 8% increase in certifications in 2024/25

Oeko-tex, the sustainable certification body for textile and leather companies, reported that it issued 57,412 certifications and labels in the 2024/25 season, up 8% on the previous period. In particular, the company reported a 127% acceleration for its Oeko-tex Organic Cotton certification.

More than 50,000 Eco Passports, certifying the controlled use of chemicals and dyes, were also issued, up 10% year-on-year. The Made in Green label, which governs traceability and production methods, was awarded to 18,000 products, bringing the number of companies in the Made in Green network to 5,300.

“Strategic partnerships have played an important role in this development,” pointed out CEO, Alfred J. Beerli. “Our collaboration with Cradle to Cradle promotes mutual recognition and helps reduce complexity for industry players. Our joint activities with the Global Nature Fund (an NGO for the protection of aquatic ecosystems) have strengthened our commitment to biodiversity and responsible water management.”

Of all the certifications and labels issued during the year under review, 62% were awarded to Asian companies, compared with 27% to companies based in Western Europe, and 6% in the Middle East. The remaining 5% were shared between the other regions.

The publication of these figures comes after Oeko-tex announced changes to its seven labels in January. The new rules are designed to keep pace with changes in demand, but also with the emergence of new legislation linked to the sustainability of the industry.

Founded in 1992 as an association, Oeko-tex currently operates via 17 international research institutes. The Standard 1000, Leather Standard and Organic Cotton certifications are monitored via audits at production sites. Over the past year, 10,364 audits have been carried out.