Behind every garment, there's much more than just style or material. There are production choices, locations, expertise, and sometimes marketing shortcuts. "Made in Europe" is highly praised today, but its meaning often remains unclear. Understanding what it truly encompasses allows for more informed choices without radically changing one's consumption habits.
By Europe, we mean any country that has all or part of its territory on the European continent, i.e., the countries on this list: Albania, Germany, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Romania, United Kingdom, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine and Turkey, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia
Contrary to what one might think, European regulations do not require the country of manufacture to be indicated for textile products. Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 only regulates the composition of fibres. However, if an origin is mentioned, it must be accurate and verifiable. This is an obligation set by Directive 2005/29/EC, which prohibits any misleading indication.
To determine the origin of a product, the law relies on a simple principle. This is the place where the last substantial transformation takes place. This rule is defined by the Union Customs Code (UCC) and is notably reiterated in the French Customs Code. In practice, this means that the country of origin corresponds to where the product actually takes shape. In textiles, this most often refers to manufacturing rather than secondary operations.
The phrase "made in Europe" is not an official legal designation. It remains permitted but must reflect reality. A brand must be able to demonstrate that the majority of the manufacturing is indeed carried out in Europe. Otherwise, it risks reclassification for misleading practice.
Producing in Europe is not limited to a location. It also implies adhering to a demanding regulatory framework. Products must meet strict standards for safety, traceability, and composition, particularly through the REACH regulation. In addition, there are social and environmental requirements regulated at the European level.
Regarding European countries outside the European Union, the situation remains largely aligned. Countries such as Turkey, Switzerland, and Norway are integrated into various trade agreements or economic areas with the Union. As such, they apply similar rules regarding the origin of products and, to export to the European market, must comply with equivalent requirements concerning conformity, safety, and chemical substances. The principles of substantial transformation and non-deception therefore remain fully applicable in practice.
Finally, within this framework, Eurovista relies on brand declarations and carries out selection and verification work to ensure consistency with these requirements. However, the responsibility for the accuracy of information relating to origin remains with the manufacturer or the brand. In the event of an erroneous or misleading declaration, notably arising from a breach of Directive 2005/29/EC, Eurovista cannot be held responsible.