J∞QUALITY
J∞QUALITY is a private certification system that certifies the quality and manufacturing of Japan-made fashion products, targeting the processes and production structure carried out in Japan, such as weaving and knitting, dyeing and finishing, and sewing.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Positioning of the System
J∞QUALITY is a certification system for manufacturing in Japan’s textile and fashion industries. It is not a legal regulation or a standard that indicates the type of material itself, but a system that verifies domestic production processes and production by certified businesses.
This certification covers not only fabric but also apparel products. Therefore, it is important not to regard it merely as a system that confirms whether an item can be labeled “Made in Japan,” or as a test standard that guarantees specific performance.
Target Processes and Basic Approach
The processes covered generally include weaving and knitting, dyeing and finishing, and sewing. For fabric, the scope of verification extends from weaving and knitting through dyeing and finishing. For products, the verification covers the chain of processes from fabric production through sewing. Each process must be carried out by factories and businesses that are certified for the relevant scope.
In addition to confirming the production background, the certification also includes the idea of a system related to domestic production, such as quality control and the transfer of technical skills. However, it is not a certification that uniformly guarantees individual performance values such as colorfastness, shrinkage rate, or durability.
- Confirm whether the certification scope for fabric covers only weaving and knitting or includes dyeing and finishing as well.
- For apparel products, check not only the outer fabric but also the lining, interfacing, and accessories against the certification conditions.
- If the product number, color, processing, or factory changes, confirm whether it can be handled as the same certified item.
Points to Check in Fabric Procurement and Product Development
When procuring certified fabric, confirm the certification category, applicable product number, applicable color, processing details, manufacturing process, and validity of the certification with the supplier. Even if the material name and place of origin are the same, not all fabric may be covered by the certification.
Even when certified fabric is used, the finished product may not be allowed to carry the certification mark depending on the sewing contractor, auxiliary materials, post-processing, or application conditions for the product. It is practically important to share the conditions at the planning stage among the fabric supplier, sewing factory, and labeling personnel.
Notes on Labeling and Certificates
When using the J∞QUALITY name or mark on swing tags, woven labels, product descriptions, or similar items, it is necessary not only to confirm that the item is certified, but also to follow the display method and usage procedures established by the system administrator. Fabric certification and product certification are handled separately.
On purchase orders, specifications, and inspection records, document not only the certification name but also the applicable product number, color, lot, process, and the location of the supporting documents. When explaining the product for sale, limit the explanation to the certified scope, and be careful not to broadly claim performance assurance or reduced environmental impact based on the certification alone.
Differences from Similar Terms
Country-of-origin labeling is the idea of indicating a product’s country of origin based on laws and regulations. J∞QUALITY is a private certification that focuses on domestic production processes and the certified production system, and it does not replace country-of-origin labeling itself.
OEKO-TEX, GOTS, and GRS are certifications that address different subjects, such as hazardous substances, organic raw materials, and recycled materials. J∞QUALITY is primarily a certification for production processes and manufacturing in Japan, so its purpose and supporting documents differ from those certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I use J∞QUALITY fabric, can I also display J∞QUALITY on the product?
Not necessarily. For certification of the finished product, not only the fabric but also the sewing process and the production business are subject to confirmation of the requirements. Obtain the certification documents for the fabric and confirm the requirements and labeling procedures for product certification at the planning stage.
Is J∞QUALITY the same as a Made in Japan label?
No, it is not the same. A Made in Japan label is an idea related to country-of-origin labeling, whereas J∞QUALITY is a private certification that verifies domestic processes and a certified production system. For product labeling, manage the necessary evidence and conditions for each separately.
Does J∞QUALITY guarantee fabric colorfastness or safety?
The certification alone does not guarantee the colorfastness, shrinkage rate, safety, or other individual characteristics of the fabric. Depending on the intended use, it is necessary to separately conduct the required quality checks, such as blend ratio, care labeling, colorfastness testing, and formaldehyde testing.
