GFA continues to closely monitor the global evolution of fashion legislation through GFA’s Policy Matrix: Americas and EU editions, offering more clarity and updates on emerging and existing legislation. Since the last review, these are the key updates:

GFA Policy Matrix: EU

• On 16 December 2025, the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC), tasked with providing evidence-based scientific and technical support to EU policies, published a report on proposed design options for apparel textiles. The report will inform the Commission’s development of dedicated sustainability criteria under the EU Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR). The ESPR provides the legal framework for setting mandatory ecodesign requirements for various product categories, with textiles identified as a priority area. Key proposals by the JRC include a mandatory minimum performance requirement for recycled content for products placed on the EU market, alongside information requirements. Stakeholders can submit written feedback on the report until 30 March 2026.

• On 9 February, the European Commission adopted new measures under the EU’s ESPR that prohibit the destruction of unsold apparel, accessories, and footwear. Under the new rules, brands may only discard unsold stock in narrowly defined cases, such as for safety reasons or product damage. Large enterprises will be subject to the ban from 19 July 2026, with medium-sized players brought into scope in 2030, while micro and small companies are exempt. The rules also require companies to disclose the volumes of unsold consumer products discarded as waste through a common reporting format, applicable to large businesses from February 2027 and to medium-sized firms from 2030. The measures are intended to reduce waste and environmental harm and to create a level playing field for more sustainable business models.

Explore the latest updates to the GFA Policy Matrix EU, including the launch of a public consultation on Forced Labour Regulation Guidelines, and the formal approval of the Omnibus I Package by the European Parliament and EU Member States, which aims to simplify sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements to boost EU competitiveness.

Download the GFA Policy Matrix: EU

GFA Policy Matrix: Americas

• Mexico’s General Law on Circular Economy (LGEC) entered into force on 20 January 2026, establishing a nationwide, binding legal framework aimed at extending product lifecycles, reducing waste generation, and prioritising the recovery, reuse, and valorisation of materials. A key feature of the legislation is the introduction of mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Obligations will be rolled out gradually, by sector and product category. The Decree establishing the LGEC requires implementing regulations to be adopted by mid-July 2026. Following their adoption, a National Circular Economy Programme (2026-2030) must be published, identifying the priority sectors and product categories to which EPR requirements will apply.

Explore the latest updates to the GFA Policy Matrix Americas, including the reintroduction of key textile-related measures in the 2026 legislative session. These include the New York Fashion Act and the New York Proposal for Textile EPR, as well as the Washington Fashion Act and the Washington Act to Establish EPR for Textiles.

Download the GFA Policy Matrix: Americas

Disclaimer: The GFA Policy Matrix is an independent resource developed by Global Fashion Agenda. The information provided does not constitute, nor is it intended to constitute, a comprehensive overview of all relevant legislation. It reflects GFA’s views and is shared for informational purposes only.