EURATEX has published a position paper on the Digital Product Passport for apparel. The paper explains how the system should work for the textile sector.
The Digital Product Passport will form part of the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR). It will provide structured information on products placed on the EU market. This data will support circularity, transparency and enforcement across the Single Market.
EURATEX supports the introduction of the Digital Product Passport for apparel. At the same time, the industry stresses the need for a system that remains practical, secure and proportionate.
Limiting mandatory information
The Digital Product Passport should include only information required by law. Companies should not face unnecessary reporting obligations.
Key product information may cover durability, recyclability and recycled content. Authorities may also require limited data on production stages. This information can improve transparency and help recyclers identify materials.
Voluntary information, such as sustainability labels, may appear in the passport. However, it should remain optional.
Protecting confidential business information
The Digital Product Passport must protect sensitive company data. Supplier networks, production methods and materials represent valuable assets.
EURATEX recommends strict access rules. Consumers, authorities and recyclers should access different levels of information. These safeguards will prevent misuse of sensitive business data.
The association also stresses the importance of European data sovereignty. The DPP infrastructure should operate within the EU.
Supporting SMEs and interoperability
Many textile companies are small and medium-sized enterprises. The Digital Product Passport must therefore remain simple and affordable.
EURATEX calls for harmonised standards and interoperable systems. These standards will allow companies to share data efficiently across platforms.
The industry also recommends a transition period of 24 to 36 months. This timeframe will allow companies to adapt their systems and supply chains.
Ensuring fair enforcement
The Digital Product Passport for apparel should also strengthen market surveillance. Authorities must verify information provided by all operators.
Effective enforcement will ensure that EU producers and foreign exporters follow the same rules. A level playing field remains essential for the competitiveness of the European textile industry.
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