We are going to inform you when we start providing certification services within the scope of GLOBALG.A.P. "Supply Chain (CoC)". You can access the relevant regulations and current forms from the links below.

      CHAIN OF CUSTODY STANDARD-CONTROL POINTS AND COMPLIANCE CRITERIA-

FOR THE SUPPLY CHAIN FROM THE PRODUCER TO RETAIL STORES AND/OR RESTAURANT CHAIN OPERATORS

OR

FOR RETAIL STORES AND RESTAURANT CHAIN OPERATORS

ENGLISH VERSION 6.1_NOV22

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/gozetim-zinciri-standardi-coc-kontrol-noktalari-ve-uyum-kriterleri_94358.pdf

      GLOBALG.A.P. Chain of Custody General Regulations

ENGLISH VERSION 6.1_NOV22

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/globalg-a-p-gozetim-zinciri-coc-genel-yonetmelikleri_94363.pdf

We would like to inform you that we have started to provide certification services within the scope of GLOBALG.A.P. ‘’SPRING’’. You can access the relevant regulations, updated procedures and forms from the links below.

• GLOBALG.A.P. - General Regulations Specifications for the Sustainable Program for Irrigation and Groundwater Use (SPRING) -(Based on GLOBALG.A.P. General Regulations Version 6)

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/globalg-a-p-sulama-ve-yeralti-suyu-kullanimi-icin-surdurulebilir-programin-genel-yonetmelikleri-spring_94007.pdf

• SUSTAINABLE PROGRAM FOR IRRIGATION AND GROUNDWATER USE (SPRING) - Principles and Criteria for Plants

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/sulama-ve-yer-alti-suyu-kullanimi-icin-surdurulebilir-program-spring_94011.pdf

• GP 23 Globalgap Certification Guide.Rev06.20241008

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/globalg-a-p-belgelendirme-rehberi_90971.pdf

• GP 23 F 01 GLOBALG.A.P. Registration Request for Option-1.Rev06.20241101

http://etko.com.tr/basvuru-formlari >> GLOBALGAP Opton-1


GP 23 F 02 GLOBALG.A.P. Registration Request for Option-2.Rev06.20241101

http://etko.com.tr/basvuru-formlari >> GLOBALGAP Option-2

Stuttgart, Germany – As the global demand for sustainable textiles continues to rise, the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA) have joined forces to urge industry leaders, businesses and stakeholders to take decisive action in supporting farmers transitioning to organic cotton. GOTS and OCA, as part the #BehindTheSeams, campaign are highlighting the critical need to bolster the supply of organic fibres by supporting growers during the challenging transition from conventional to organic farming, in addition to educating consumers about choosing “organic in-conversion” cotton textiles.

The #BehindTheSeams 2024 campaign, running throughout September, provides unique insights into the people and practices behind sustainable textiles, showcasing the environmental and social benefits of organic-certified fibres.

Bridging the gap: supporting farmers during the in-conversion period 

The solution to a growing demand for organic cotton lies in empowering more farmers to grow organic fibres. Switching from conventional to organic farming requires a vital stage known as the “in-conversion” period that can last three years, during which farmers face challenges such as fluctuating crop conditions and market uncertainties. The industry must provide support in this process.

To assist these farmers, OCA provides critical resources such as capacity-building, premium payments and market linkages. During the 2023-2024 cotton season, OCA worked with over 35,000 in-conversion farmers in India and Pakistan as part of a broader programme that supports over 80,000 farmers. This impact has been made possible through the commitments of 16 brands and retailers participating in OCA’s Farm Programme.

A win-win partnership for brands and farmers

Transitioning to organic farming requires significant knowledge and resources, and it`s an experience that no farmer should face alone. Brands that commit to purchasing in-conversion cotton invest in the additional support and inputs farmers require, resulting in certified crops with significant environmental and economic benefits. More brands need to join OCA`s Farm Programme, which addresses existing challenges in organic cotton farming by providing farmers with tools, expertise and market commitments from buyers, ensuring higher earnings and a secure supply of organic fibres.

Join the movement for organic cotton

The #BehindTheSeams campaign calls on brands, retailers and stakeholders across the textile industry to act now by supporting farmers during this critical in-conversion phase. By joining OCA’s Farm Programme, companies can make a tangible impact on the future of organic cotton, securing not only a sustainable supply of organic fibres but also contributing to global sustainability goals. Learn more here about who needs to be certified, the importance of organic fibres in sustainability and the in-conversion process.

https://global-standard.org/news/groundbreaking-ai-satellite-project-by-gots-and-marple-revolutionises-organic-cotton-detection-2

‘’ASR-107-V2025.0-Certification-Fee-Structure’’ was published by TE in September 12, 2024. The document will effective date of January 1, 2025. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/asr-107-v2025-0-certification-fee-structure_97636.pdf

The ‘’TI 49-F Catalogue of Measures GOTS&TE’’ instructions was updated on 18.09.2024. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

There has been a change in the test method applied for the presence of Genetic Modification in cotton.

ISO has publicly announced that it has revoked the approved test method ISO IWA 32:2019 for the analysis of GOTS Products and has instead published the standards under the number ISO/DIS 5354-1.2 (parts 1 and 2).

* ISO/DIS 5354-1.2 : Molecular biomarkers — Detection of DNA in cotton used for textile production — Part 1: Extraction of DNA from cotton seed and raw materials derived therefrom.

* ISO/TS 5354-2 : Molecular biomarkers — Detection of DNA in cotton used for textile production — Part 2: Overview of target sequences for use in polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based detection methods for cotton genetically modified (GM) events

Laboratories will need time to transition to the new method, so although tests are expected to be carried out in the last quarter of 2025 or early 2026 according to ISO 5354, we recommend that you follow official notifications on the subject. Until then, ISO IWA 32 tests will be allowed.

"With the above-mentioned current ISO Standards "ISO/DIS 5354-1.2" and "ISO/TS 5354-2" becoming mandatory, please ensure that you use the laboratory accredited according to these standards instead of ISO IWA 32 to perform the relevant analyses."

"GP 23 Globalgap Certification Guide" was updated on 10.07.2024. You can access the relevant procedure from the link below.

"TI 49-D İTU & GLOBALG.A.P. Uygunsuzluk Derecelendirme Rehberi" was updated on 10.07.2024. You can access the relevant instructions from the link below.

"I would like to draw your attention to a development regarding the test method employed for the presence of Genetic Modification in cotton.

As you are aware, the approved test method for analysis of GOTS Goods has been specified as ISO IWA 32.  

And now ISO released the following standards publicly under the number ISO 5354 (parts 1 and 2) by furthering states that "ISO/DIS 5354-1.2, along with ISO 5354-2, cancels and replaces IWA 32:2019, which has been technically revised throughout":

* ISO/DIS 5354-1.2 : Molecular biomarkers — Detection of DNA in cotton used for textile production — Part 1: Extraction of DNA from cotton seed and raw materials derived therefrom.
* ISO/TS 5354-2 : Molecular biomarkers — Detection of DNA in cotton used for textile production — Part 2: Overview of target sequences for use in polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based detection methods for cotton genetically modified (GM) events
 
Laboratories will need time to transition to the new method, so although tests are expected to be carried out in the last quarter of 2025 or early 2026 according to ISO 5354, we recommend that you follow official notifications on the subject. Until then, ISO IWA 32 tests will be allowed.

"With the above-mentioned current ISO Standards "ISO/DIS 5354-1.2" and "ISO/TS 5354-2" becoming mandatory, please ensure that you use the laboratory accredited according to these standards instead of ISO IWA 32 to perform the relevant analyses."

The "GP 33 ETKO Certification Services_Private Standards" procedure was updated on 15.05.2024. You can access the relevant procedure from the link below.

The regulation “ASR-106-V2.4-Accepted-Equivalent-Standards-Policy” has been published by TE on 26.03.2024. You can access the relevant regulation from the link below.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/cosmos-standard-v4-1_73586.pdf

The document " GLOBALGAP product list_v6.0_Mar24"  has been published by the GLOBAL GAP. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

 The document " GLOBALGAP_Product List General Information_v5.19"  has been published by the GLOBAL GAP on March 2024. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

The "Revision of GOTS fees" has been published by GOTS on 13.03.2024. You can access the relevant revision from the link below.

Fees will be applied as of July 1.

The Chinese version " CCS-201-V3.1- CCS-User-Manual‘’ has been published by Textile Exchange on 04.03.2024. You can access the relevant user manual from the link below.

The Turkish version " OCS-101-V3.0-TR-Organic-Content-Standard‘’ has been published by Textile Exchange on 04.03.2024. You can access the relevant standard from the link below.

The Turkish version " RCS-101-V2.0-TR-Recycled-Claim-Standard ‘’ has been published by Textile Exchange on 04.03.2024. You can access the relevant standard from the link below.

"REGULATION ON AMENDMENTS TO THE COSMETIC PRODUCTS REGULATION"  has been published on 05.03.2024. You can access the relevant regulation from the link below.

The "GP 25 Use of Logo, License and Compliance Marks" procedure was updated on 26.02.2024. You can access the relevant procedure from the link below.

The " GP 23 Globalgap Certification Guide " procedure was updated on 26.02.2024. You can access the relevant procedure from the link below.

The "TI 49-F Catalogue of Measures GOTS&TE" instructions was updated on 01.02.2024. You can access the relevant instructions from the link below.

The regulation "ASR 113-V1.0 Policy for the Use of eTrackit " has been published by TE on 10.01.2024. You can Access the relevant regulation from  the link below.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/asr-113-v1-0-policy-for-the-use-of-etrackit_67734.pdf

The regulation " TE-201-V2024.1-Document-List-Public " has been published by TE on 10.01.2024. You can Access the relevant regulation from  the link below.

The regulation "ASR-221-V2024.1 Calibration Log" has been published by TE on 04.01.2024. You can Access the relevant regulation from  the link below.

The document " GLOBALGAP Product List v6.0"  has been published by the GLOBAL G.A.P.  on November 2023. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

The "’eTrackit Quick Guide for Brands " document has been published by Textile Exchange. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/etrackit-quick-guide-for-brands_66412.pdf

The " GOTS Advisory Accessory Approval Procedure Under GOTS" document has been published by GOTS on 20.12.2023. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

The "ASR-221-Calibration Log.V2023.11" document has been published by Textile Exchange on 18.12.2023. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

Choosing option 2 provides economic benefits for the producer group members involved. Because here, certification and technical assistance costs are collective and shared among all producer group members. Additionally, option 2 helps producers with small-scale farms enter the market.

You can access from the link below''information about the process and economic benefits'' .

The "Manual for the Implementation of GOTS Version 7.1" document has been published by GOTS on 19.12.2023. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

 http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/gots-versiyon-7-1-uygulama-kilavuzu_66049.pdf

The regulation "Commission Decision 2023-2719"  has been published by the EU on 07.12.2023. You can access the relevant regulation from the link below.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/komisyon-karari-ab-2023-2719_65833.pdf

The regulation "TRADE AND COOPERATION"  has been published by the EU on 01.09.2023. You can access the relevant regulation from the link below.

https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:02021A0430(01)-20230901&qid=1702639423517

The regulation "ASR-225-V2023.4 List of Banned Organization" has been published by TE on 06.12.2023. You can access the relevant regulation from  the link below.

The document " Frequently Asked Questions and Answers on Organic Rules "  has been published by the EU on 30.11.2023. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

The "ASR-221-Calibration Log.V2023.10" regulation has been published by Textile Exchange on 05.12.2023. You can access the relevant regulation from the link below.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/asr-221-calibration-log-v2023-10_65043.pdf

The "Use of GP 23 Logo License and Compliance Marks" procedure was updated on 27.11.2023. You can access the relevant procedure from the link below.

The "ASR-221-Calibration Log.V2023.9" regulation has been published by Textile Exchange on 08.11.2023. You can access the relevant regulation from the link below.

The document " Terms of Reference for RMS Expert Panel"  has been published by the GLOBAL GAP. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

 The document " TE-406-V1.1 Quick Guide to Brand Certification and CCS-3.0"  has been published by the TE on 06.05.2022. You can access the relevant document from the link below.

Regulation (EU) 2018/848 of the European Parliament and of the Council    

Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/1698

Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/2306

Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020_2146

Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/771

Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021-1189

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/1165

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/279

Commission Implementing Regulation 2021/1378

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/2119

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021_2307

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022-2240

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/464

http://etko.com.tr/organik-tarim-belgelendirme/11/ab-organik-programi

The procedure "GP 11 Use of Logo Licensees Mark of Conformity" has been published on 20.09.2023. You can access the relevant procedure from  the link below.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/logo-lisans-uygunluk-isaretlerinin-kullanimi_58834.pdf

The document " GOTS Due Diligence Handbook for Certified Entities 10" has been published by GOTS on 14.09.2023. You can Access the relevant document from  the link below.

The regulation "ASR-221-V2023.7-Calibration-Log" has been published by TE on 12.09.2023. You can Access the relevant regulation from  the link below.

Transitional measures

These transitional measures are applicable as from June 1st, 2023 and supersede the measures published initially on January 1st, 2023. They will be formally updated and published by end of the year in Version 4.1 of the COSMOS-standard as below. 

12.3.1 General rules

Raw materials that are submitted for certification or approval after 1st of June 2023 must comply with this Standard. Starting from 1st of December 2024, all raw materials must comply with this Standard. 

Cosmetic products that are submitted for certification after 1st of June 2024 must comply with this Standard. Cosmetic products that have been certified under the previous version of the Standard can still be manufactured until 1st of December 2025. However, any cosmetic product manufactured after 1st of December 2025 must comply with this Standard. 

12.3.2 Specific cases

§8 — packaging criteria: must be met before 1st of June 2025, if the submission date is prior to the 1st of June 2024.

“RAF-102-V2.2-RAF-Certification-Procedures” was updated by TE on 01.06.2023. This was a minor revision to the document (from v2.1 to v2.2) as the majority of the criteria remain unchanged.
The main modification affected the auditing of farm groups and communal farmer groups. You can access the relevant content from the link below.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/raf-102-raf-certification-procedures-v2-2_51737.pdf

Document of "ASR 221- Calibration Log.v2023.3" was published by Textile Exchange on 18.04.2023. You can access the relevant content from the link below.

• 205.2 Terms defined
• 205.601 Synthetic substances allowed for use in organic crop production.
• 205.605 Nonagricultural (nonorganic) substances allowed as ingredients in or on processed products labeled as “organic” or “made with organic (specified ingredients or food group(s)).”  

https://www.ecfr.gov/compare/2022-11-14/to/2022-11-13/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-205/subpart-A/section-205.2

https://www.ecfr.gov/compare/2022-11-14/to/2022-11-13/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-205/subpart-G

https://www.ecfr.gov/compare/2022-11-14/to/2022-11-13/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-205/subpart-G/subject-group-ECFR0ebc5d139b750cd/section-205.601

https://www.ecfr.gov/compare/2022-11-14/to/2022-11-13/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-205/subpart-G/subject-group-ECFR0ebc5d139b750cd/section-205.605

 The list of banned from the input approval system companies on behalf of the Global Standard gGmbH Advisory Committee was published by GOTS on 31.10.2022.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/gots-certification-bans_42026.pdf

The list of banned organizations by Textile Exchange "List of Banned Organizations V2022.3" was published.

You can access it from the link below;
https://textileexchange.org/app/uploads/2022/07/ASR-225-V2022.5-List-of-Banned-Organizations.pdf

Dear All,

You can reach the current document list shared by Textile Exchange on 29.07.2022 from the link below. You can access the current versions of documents.

----->>http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/dokuman-listesi_38007.pdf

The list of banned organizations by Textile Exchange "List of Banned Organizations V2022.4" was published.

You can access it from the link below;

https://textileexchange.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ASR-225-V2022.4-List-of-Banned-Organizations.pdf

Dear All,

You can reach the current document list shared by Textile Exchange on 30.06.2022 from the link below. You can access the current versions of documents.

----->>https://textileexchange.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/TE-201-V2022.6-Document-List-Public.pdf

Dear All,

The list of banned organizations by Textile Exchange "List of Banned Organizations V2022.3" was published.

You can access it from the link below;

https://textileexchange.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ASR-225-V2022.3-List-of-Banned-Organizations.pdf

Dear All,

“ASR-109a-V3.2-Guidance-for-Auditing-During-the-COVID-19-Pandemic” was updated by Textile Exchange.

This version (V3.2) is valid until September 30th, 2022.

You can access it from the link below;

--->>>> https://textileexchange.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ASR-109a-V3.2-Guidance-for-Auditing-During-the-COVID-19-Pandemic.pdf

• The Annex of the EU Implementing Regulation No. 540 has been amended as Annex 2 of the EU Regulation No. 496.

• Subspecies 203 of "Beauveria bassiana" has been approved for use as an active substance and under the conditions specified in Annex 1 of EU regulation 501. And,
• The Annex of the EU Implementing Regulation No. 540 has been amended as Annex 2 of the EU Regulation No. 501.

1. 205.601 Synthetic substances allowed for use in organic crop production: It is allowed to use vitamins C and E for plant or soil improvement purposes in organic crop production.
2. 205.605 Nonagricultural (nonorganic) substances allowed as ingredients in or on processed products labeled as “organic” or “made with organic (specified ingredients or food group(s)).”: The presence of Alginic acid as an ingredient in or on it is no longer allowed.
3. 205.606 Nonorganically produced agricultural products allowed as ingredients in or on processed products labeled as “organic.”: Paragraphs between (d) and (t) were revised and paragraphs (u) through (w) were removed.

We are at BEAUTY ISTANBUL, 2nd International Cosmetics, Beauty, Hair, Home Care, Private Label, Packaging and Materials Fair.

Textile Exchange has published the current document list named ""TE-201-V2021.8-Document-List-Public", which you can access from the link below;

http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/document-list-public_25822.pdf

The "COMMISSION DELEGATED REGULATION (EU) 2021_1342" regulation has been published by the EU on 16.08.2021. You can access the relevant regulation from the link below.

"Terms and Definitions for Textile Exchange Standards and Related Documents" was published by Textile Exchange on 06.08.2021.

You can access it from the link below;
http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/terms-and-definitions-for-textile-exchange-standards-and-related-documents_24413.pdf

"TE-201-V2021.7-Document-List-Public" named document was published by Textile Exchange on 28.07.2021.

You can access it from the link below;

https://textileexchange.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/TE-201-V2021.7-Document-List-Public.pdf

GOTS tarafından GOTS Standardı ve Uygulama El Kitabı’nın Türkçe olarak yayınlanmıştır.

http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/global-organik-tekstil-standardi-v-6-0-1706_4033.pdf

GOTS tarafından GOTS Standardı ve Uygulama El Kitabı’nın Türkçe olarak yayınlanmıştır.

http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/gots-uygulamasi-elkitabi-6-0-1698_4037.pdf

Dear All,

The requirements indicated below were added to the "TI 73 Instruction for Emergency Situation" instruction established by ETKO:

•            ETKO ask the client to announce the exercise of the Virtual Interviews of Client's Employees to the client’s employees via public notice board or emails or suitable like communication, in a language(s) that would be understood by the employees. In such a notice, employees should be encouraged to contact the auditor with any concern through ETKO telephone number(+90 232 339 76 06) and email of the auditor. A generic office email address(info@etko.com.tr) may also be used for this purpose. Such a notice shall be displayed for a reasonable period of time prior and post the scheduled audit. It is suggested that this period be at least one week before the audit date and at least four days after the audit date. Evidence that this has been communicated in writing to staff should be provided to ETKO. Where translation is relevant for employee interviews (for example if ETKO or Auditor is based in another country), the need for independent / confidential translation must be clearly ensured and communicated by ETKO.

You can access the instruction from link below:

http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/acil-durum-talimati_2847.pdf

Please read the instruction and, follow the rules set by this instruction in your activities during the corona virus outbreak period.

Please let us to know if you have any question.

Please find enclosed the EU REG 2020/1667 (it recorded in below link) that extends the temporary measures (REG 2020/977) on organic controls because of Coronavirus until 01.02.2021. This has been published 11 November 2020.

http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/commission-implementing-regulation-eu-2020-977_4045.pdf.

http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/commission-implementing-regulation-eu-2020-1667_4049.pdf

Please find enclosed the EU REG 2020/1667 (it recorded in below link) that extends the temporary measures (REG 2020/977) on organic controls because of Coronavirus until 01.02.2021. This has been published 11 November 2020.

http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/commission-implementing-regulation-eu-2020-977_4045.pdf.

http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/commission-implementing-regulation-eu-2020-1667_4049.pdf

“TI 73 Instruction for Emergency Situation” was revised according to the new regulation “COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING REGULATION (EU) 2020_1667” of EU commission.

Temporary measures on organic controls was extended because of Coronavirus until 01.02.2021 in TI 73 with this revison as indicated in the “EU Regulation 2020_1667”.

Dear All,

Amending Regulation EU 1693/2020 with the postponement of the enforcement of the New Organic Regulation until 1st January 2022 has been published on 13th November 2020 in the EU Official Journal.

https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_20_1548

 https://ec.europa.eu/info/food-farming-fisheries/farming/organic-farming/future-organics_en

The requirements indicated below were added to the "TI 73 Instruction for Emergency Situation" instruction established by ETKO:

 ·         EU requirements regarding Inspection Assignments (section 4.2.1 third item)

·         Violation of privacy laws regarding Onsite, Remote/Virtual Audits (section 4.2.4 first paragraph)

·         EU Requirements indicated in EU Regulation 2020/977 (section “EU requirements” item c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j, k)

·         Record Methods regarding Remote/Virtual Audit (section 4.2.4.1.b twelfth item)

http://www.etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/acil-durum-talimati_1405.pdf

“National List Sunset Dates” was updated by USDA.

You can access the list from below link.

COSMOS published enclosed “AUDITING DURING Corona virüs SARS-CoV-2” document.

 You can access the document from the attachment

In our “TI 73 Instruction for Emergency Situation” instruction, the section “4.2.4.1 Remote / Virtual Audits” was added, which explains the path to be followed when performing Remote audits.

 You can access the standard from the attachment

It is enclosed of the “TI 73 Instruction for Emergency Situation” instruction explaining what to do in an emergency, such as a coronavirus pandemic.

If you have any question, just let me know, please.

GOTS issued an update publicaton about measures related COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak.

You can access the publication (GOTS Measures releated to COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak(Extension of Scope Certificates, "Virtual Audits") Update as of 17 April 2020) from the link below:

https://www.global-standard.org/images/GOTS_Policies/GOTS_Measures_COVID19_Update.pdf

“Organic-Content-Standard_v3.0” has been published and must be applied by February 28, 2021 at the latest.

You can access the standard from the attachment.

https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32020R0466&from=EN

COSMOS has published the notification “COSMOS AUDITING DURING CASES OF FORCE MAJEURE_COVID-19” regarding the audit process in mandatory cases (COVID-19).

You can access this notification from the attachment.

GOTS published the procedure called "GOTS Measures releated to COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak (Extension of Scope Certificates," Virtual Audits "), which includes the measures taken regarding COVID-19 (such as extending the validity of Master Certificates, Virtual Controls).

You can access this procedure from the link below:

https://www.global-standard.org/images/GOTS_Policies/GOTS_Measures_On_COVID-19_19-03-20.pdf

A new regulation amending EC 889/2008 has just been published. The amendments come into force in January 2020. You can access the full text of the new regulation EU 2164/2019 from the link below:

https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv:OJ.L_.2019.328.01.0061.01.ENG&toc=OJ:L:2019:328:TOC

Dear all,

 By this information letter we would like to take your attention for the updated fee Schedule. The fees schedule indicates ETKO charges to the operators for different services. The recent updates are related to the operators outside Turkey, especially Bangladesh, Pakistan and other regional countries.

 With the last updates we hope to serve all clients equally and be more transparent for charges.

You can check the latest updated Fee Schedule as attached and also from ETKO website link below:

 http://www.etko.com.tr/Dosyalar/Belgeler/Belge_En_27.pdf

 http://www.etko.com.tr/Dosyalar/Belgeler/Belge_27.pdf

 Do not hesitate to contact to us for any question.

Send your questions related to the fees to:

bilgi@etko.com.tr

USDA published a final rule amending the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances for crops, livestock and processing. These 35 changes reflect National Organic Standards Board recommendations and the organic sector's needs for additional tools or information to manage their agricultural or processing operations in compliance with the USDA organic regulations. The final rule successfully resolves many outstanding NOSB recommendations.

This rule changes the use restrictions for seventeen substances allowed for organic production or handling on the National List. This rule also adds sixteen new substances on the National List to be allowed in organic production or handling. In addition, this final rule lists the botanical pesticide, rotenone, as a prohibited substance in organic crop production. This final rule removes ivermectin as an allowed parasiticide for use in organic livestock production and amends our regulations to allow the use of parasiticides in fiber bearing animals. Finally, this rule inserts corrections of instructions and  regulation text as listed in the proposed rule.

Implementation Dates: This rule will be fully implemented January 28, 2019, except that the amendments for the substances ivermectin, flavors, cellulose, and glycerin will be implemented December 27, 2019.

For more information click here

Türk gıda kodeksi gıda ile temas eden madde ve malzemelere dair yönetmelik 05.04.2018 tarihinde bakanlık tarafından yayımlandı.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/turk-gida-kodeksi-gida-ile-temas-eden-madde-ve-malzemelere-dair-yonetmelik_19420.pdf

This information letter was prepared for the operators and ETKO Staff members to be informed about the update for correct implementation of the labelling requirement. ETKO inspectors will evaluate the label release & approval forms during site inspections and report actual situation of the implementation through Inspection report. 

In all cases the GOTS & OCS labelling can only be applied to the product/packaging by a Certified Entity and must have been approved either by ETKO or buyers/brands certifier in advance of its application

Therefore;
1-ETKO will check label release & approval done by the buyer’s (brands, importers etc..) certifier, during the inspection. In case there is no label release done for those specific products, this is not in line with GOTS requirement 1.4 and OCS H.1 which may cause issuing NC.

2- Labels used by the textile producers or traders for those specific products to be provided with the application pack for TCs as a normal procedure. In cases where the regulation / standard requires specific attention for labelling such as GOTS 1.4 labels applied to the products must have been checked through Label release by ETKO staff members before issuing TCs.

https://www.ifoam-eu.org/en/organic-regulations/new-eu-organic-regulation-what-will-change

A new regulation amending EC 889/2008 has been published by the EU Commission and the IACB Standard has been updated accordingly

The enforcement date set by the Commission is 12th November 2018.

 The changes are:

• In beekeeping: authorization of sodium hydroxide to clean and disinfect frames, hives and combs
• In aquaculture: authorization of cholesterol supplementation for young shrimps and prawns
• Authorization of supplementation of minerals, vitamins and other substances for baby food
• Derogation for non-organically reared pullets for egg production postponed until 31 December 2020
• Derogation for the use on non-organic protein feed for pigs and poultry postponed until 31 December 2020
• Communication between Member States on non-compliances through the DG AGRI computer system
  
• Changes in Annexes I, II and VIIIa and replacement of these annexes
  

•         We will send the new standard of COSMOS to the customers by 15 September 2018 at the latest.
  
•        We will publish COSMOS Version 3 on our web site by 30 September 2018 at the latest.
  
•        Until October 30, 2018 at the latest, we will keep an eye on our " Legal and Outsourced Documents Tracking List" and update it if necessary
  
•       We will schedule training for our staff until 30 October 2018 at the latest. We will implement the trainings we plan until 31 December.
  
•        Until 30 November 2018 at the latest, we will review and update(if necessary) Quality Manual, Procedures, Instructions and Forms
  
•        We will send the new forms to the customers by 31 December 2018 at the latest.
  

GOTS modernized the Logo. Labels that are in stock with old existing Logo may continue to be used by the GOTS certified operators until the stock is exhausted.

Important: For the new packaging and labelling material to be produced by the operators “NEW MODERNIZED LOGO” must be used. 

EU equivalent certification bodies must start using the new EU TRACES system from April 19, 2017 during a transitional period.

In regards to the changes to the Globalgap version, the determined date is on 01.07.2016.

Therefore, the clients are required to update their Globalgap operating systems. The clients to whom were conducted an inspection with reference to the Version 4 by June 30, 2016 will be certified  to the Version 4 and their certifications will be valid until the due date. The inspections conducted from July 1, 2016 shall comply with the Version 5.

For more information, please visit our website:

http://www.globalgap.org/export/sites/default/.content/.galleries/documents/160201_Summary_Changes_V5_0-1_CPCC_AF_CB_FV_AB_en.pdf

 New version of GOTS have now been published on the website in the public domain of the GOTS :

· Labelling Guide, version 1 March 2016

· Labelling Release - GOTS Goods

· Labelling Release - GOTS Additives

The new version is effective immediately.  

Click: http://www.global-standard.org/the-standard/latest-version.html

Do not forget to watch the video for labelling! Click on the GOTS Logo to watch the film.

You can see changes of the new version from 

Click: http://www.global-standard.org/images/List_of_relevant_changes-GOTS_V4.pdf

You can see manual for the implementation from:

Click: http://www.global-standard.org/images/GOTS_Manual-01March2014.pdf

According to National Organic Standards Board Crops Subcommittee Proposal, hydroponic and aquaponic production systems (allowing only container growing under certain conditions) cannot be classified as certified organic due to exclusion of soil, and this prohibition may enter into force starting November,2017. Please check the following link of this proposal:

 https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/CSHydroponicsContainersNOPFall2017.pdf

We kindly bring the new version V. 5 - released on March 1^st , 2017-  of GOTS Standard and GOTS Implementation Manual to your attention. The key changes in brief: The use of Viscose and Modal (additional fibre content) is now restricted to 10% (25% for sportswear and socks).  Lyocell fibre made from certified organic of FSC sources 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 textile components. 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 Version 5.0, the Manual for Implementation Version 5.0 and a list of relevant changes can be found on http://www.global-standard.org/the-standard/latest-version.html.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/iyi-tarim-uygulamalari-hakkinda-yonetmelik_28180.pdf

Organik tarımın esasları ve uygulanmasına ilişkin yönetmelik 18.08.2010 tarihinde bakalık tarafından yayımlanmıştır. İlgili içeriğe aşağıdaki linkten ulaşabilirsiniz.

http://etko.com.tr/dosyalar/Belgeler/organik-tarimin-esaslari-ve-uygulanmasina-iliskin-yonetmelik_28193.pdf