Japan has revised its labeling laws for textile products, processed plastics and miscellaneous goods. According to the revision, washing care labeling for mufflers, scarves and shawls, and fiber composition of interlining for trousers are mandatory from April 1, 2017 while washing care labeling and fiber composition for hats, caps etc are mandatory from April 1, 2018.

There will be a one-year transition period for implementation. After the enforcement on April 1, 2017, items can be labeled either according to the requirements before or after the revision until April 1, 2018.

Most apparel and textile products are required to be labeled with fiber composition as well as instructions for care. Along with the effectiveness of the new care labeling standard implementation, textile products must be labeled with care symbols while fiber name and percentage are required. All the labeling information must be permanently attached to the textile product, either printed directly on the product or on a sewn-in label. The label must be visible, indelible and easily accessible to the consumer.

The Consumer Affairs Agency in Japan has carried out a partial revision of the Enforcement Regulations of the Household Goods Quality Labeling Act and revisions to the quality labeling regulations of textile products, processed plastics and miscellaneous goods.

The act protects the interests of general consumers.