,On April 22, 2026, the World Trade Organization (WTO) circulated notifications G/TBT/N/BDI/748, G/TBT/N/KEN/2038, G/TBT/N/RWA/1398, G/TBT/N/TZA/1583, and G/TBT/N/UGA/2352 jointly submitted by Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. The notification introduces Draft East African Standard DEAS 220:2026, which specifies requirements for knitted fabric used in apparel. The draft standard establishes technical requirements, sampling procedures, and test methods for knitted fabrics intended for clothing applications. It aligns with various international ISO standards covering aspects such as color fastness, dimensional stability, fabric strength, pilling resistance, and labeling practices. The measure also updates and replaces earlier regional standards to ensure consistency and improved quality across textile products within the East African region. The objective of the proposed standard is to harmonize textile requirements across participating countries, enhance product quality, and ensure accurate consumer information through proper labeling. It also aims to facilitate regional trade by establishing uniform technical specifications for knitted apparel fabrics. The draft is currently open for public consultation, with a 60-day comment period ending on June 21, 2026. The proposed dates of adoption and entry into force are yet to be determined.
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