The new version of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) contains stricter criteria for regenerated fibres & category "Combined Products" as well as further social criteria.
                   
GOTS' www.global-standard.org. core provisions such as the minimum content of certified organic fibres and the general bans on the use of toxic and harmful chemicals, conventional cotton, virgin polyester, GMOs, substances derived from GMOs and nanotechnology have been maintained. The criteria for the "additional fibre material" are now stricter regarding the environmentally improved and certified regenerated cellulosic fibres: The use of Viscose and Modal is now restricted to 10% (25% for sportswear and socks).  Lyocell may still be used up to 30% because of its more sustainable manufacturing processes.For the first time GOTS will allow “Combined Products” such as prams with textile fabrics, bassinets, car seats or furniture with textile fabric upholstery to have certified and labelled fabric components.
 
Ethical Business Behaviour, corruption ban, Social Fingerprint
 
Regarding the GOTS social criteria an explicit section on Ethical Business Behaviour including a corruption ban was added, based on the UN Global Compact Principles. The mandatory GOTS Social Compliance Management System for the first time includes guidance on the use of tools such as SAI Social Fingerprint™ to help companies measure and improve their social performance.
 
GOTS 5.0 is the result of a year-long revision process with multi stakeholder input which is repeated every three years. All relevant Stakeholders who operate internationally with expertise in the fields of organic production, textile colourants & chemicals, social criteria & industry, NGOs and consumer interests were invited to participate. The list of all stakeholders and more about the revision process can be found on www.global-standard.org/the-standard/revision-procedure.html

Website resource: http://organic-market.info/news-in-brief-and-reports-article/version-5-0-of-global-organic-textile-standard-released.html