Italy approves Decree protecting the term ‘leather’: are you up to date with the new requirements?

Italy approves Decree protecting the term ‘leather’: are you up to date with the new requirements?

The correct use of labelling and product descriptions for leather, and leather product, is a fundamental part of protecting the consumer from misconceptions about the product in which they are purchasing. While the definitions for leather, and related terms, are generally well established and understood; there are some variations to labelling regulations between different global jurisdictions.

Earlier this year, in May 2020, the Council of Ministers of Italy approved the new legislative Decree No. 68 of 9th June 2020, on the definition and use of various terminologies relating to leather materials.

One of the most substantial aspects of the decree, is that it prohibits the use of any prefixes or suffixes with the terms ‘leather’, ‘full grain leather’, ‘coated leather’, ‘fur’ or ‘bonded leather fibre’ (in any language) when used to identify materials not having animal origin, but synthetic or other alternative material origins. For example, terms such as ‘synthetic leather’ would be prohibited.

As stated in a note from the Council of Ministers, “the decree contains provisions that exclusively concern the essential composition requirements that the products and products manufactured with them must satisfy in order to be placed on the market. The goal is to have a clear and unambiguous indication of the materials used and to eliminate potential obstacles to the smooth functioning of the market."

The decree became effective from 24th October 2020 and repeals the previous Decree No. 1112 of 16th December 1966. However, the materials and products placed on the market before entry into force of this new decree and labelled according to previous decree can be sold until 23rd October 2022.

For more information on this, or any other leather labelling regulations, get in touch with our leather experts at [email protected] or telephone +44 (0)1604 679 999.

29 October 2020

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