REACH and Azo Dyes: What EU Buyers Should Ask an Indian Supplier

Short answer: REACH is the EU's chemicals law. For textiles that touch skin, it restricts azo dyes that can break down into any of a list of 22 aromatic amines, with a limit of 30 mg/kg. As the importer, you are legally responsible. Ask your supplier for a test report on the dyed product, and for the dye house's restricted substances policy.

What azo dyes are

Azo dyes are the largest family of textile dyes. Most are safe. A small group can release aromatic amines that are known or suspected to cause cancer. Those are the ones restricted, under Annex XVII of REACH.

White, undyed towels and sheets are not affected by the azo rule, though other restrictions still apply to finishes.

Other REACH points for textiles

The list of substances of very high concern is updated regularly. Compliance is something you keep checking, not something you do once.

Five questions to ask

• Which dye house dyes this product, and does it work to a restricted substances list?
• Can you provide an azo test report on this fabric and colour from an accredited laboratory?
• Is this product covered by an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certificate? What is the number?
• Are any easy-care, softening or antimicrobial finishes applied?
• Will you sign a declaration of REACH conformity for this order?

What a test report should show

• The laboratory's name and accreditation.
• A description of the sample that matches your product and colour.
• The test method.
• The result for each amine: "not detected" or a figure below 30 mg/kg.
• A recent date.

A report for a different colour or fabric tells you little. Dark and bright shades deserve the most attention.

How OEKO-TEX relates to REACH

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a voluntary certification. Its test criteria cover the restricted azo dyes and many other substances, and they are updated every year to stay in step with regulations including REACH. A valid certificate for the specific article is strong evidence.

It does not replace your legal responsibility. The importer who places goods on the EU market is the one the authorities hold to account.

Our position

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is available on certified lines, and we confirm the certificate that applies to your product before you order. For custom colours, we can arrange laboratory testing of the dyed fabric at your request, with the cost quoted upfront.

A simple routine for importers

• Ask for the certificate or test report with the sample, not after the order.
• File it against the order number.
• Re-check when you change colour, fabric or supplier.
• Spot-test one product a year at a laboratory of your own choosing.

Read more

Our overview of textile certifications explains what each scheme covers, and EU labelling for towels and sheets covers the label rules. This post is a plain-language guide, not legal advice. For a quote with the compliance documents listed, tell us your product and market.