Oritain and GG International Extend Pioneering Product Origin Verification Program
25 October 2024
Oritain and GG International have announced a multi-year extension to their pioneering product origin verification program.
The program, which commenced in 2023, sees Oritain’s scientific testing used to verify the integrity of garments manufactured by GG International. The new program extension will be instrumental in ensuring the traceability and sustainable manufacturing of GG’s products.
This collaboration is particularly notable in the Asia region, with GG being the first Korean manufacturer to scientifically verify the origin of their cotton products with Oritain.
The news is the latest in a series of announcements from Oritain on the company’s growing commitment to the Asia region. Earlier in 2024, Oritain announced the establishment of their first Asian office, located in Singapore, as well as a multi-year partnership with textile and garment manufacturer Ramatex Group.
Oritain specializes in origin verification for the cotton, apparel and textiles industry, having mapped 95% of the world’s cotton-producing countries. The company’s forensic science is recognized by the US Customs & Border Protection and Department of Homeland Security as accepted methods of compliance with the UFLPA regulation prohibiting forced labor.
“It has been a tremendous experience working with Oritain,” said Minny Lee, Divisional VP of Sales for GG International. “Consequently, we have decided to extend our contract with Oritain for an additional two years."
Based in South Korea, GG International produces and distributes high quality fashion garments to major retail brands across the world. The company manages production facilities in Indonesia and Vietnam, with a further site set to open in Bangladesh.
The key to GG’s success has been a dedication to innovative and ethical business practices. The company’s ethos is based on the principle of being ‘Good Guys’, where through genuine care for people, the company seeks to produce quality products that benefit both their workers and the wider society.
Ensuring their products are free of cotton linked to forced labor was a significant driver for GG in selecting to work with Oritain. Using Oritain’s isotope technology to verify the origin of GG’s cotton, the company can ensure the integrity of their products, achieve more efficient resource utilization, and make a positive impact on the Uyghur people by avoiding forced labor and ensuring fair working practices.
GG's partnership with Oritain has borne immediate fruits, with a 150% increase in tests carried out per year helping the company establish a robust traceability process to more transparently manage their supply chain.
“Through Oritain's comprehensive testing procedures, we have been able to thoroughly review our internal supply chain, identifying our weaknesses and areas that need improvement,” said Minny Lee. “What began as a testing process evolved into a seamless collaboration with Oritain through continuous and effective communication.”
Improved risk management has dramatically reduced the risk of association with unethical sourcing, enhancing GG’s reputation as a brand committed to ethical practices.
By proving the value of Oritain’s solutions, Oritain has become more than just a testing lab. It is now a consultant and trusted advisor to various teams within GG’s organization.
For more information contact:
Clare Evans
Head of Communications & PR, Oritain
clevans@oritain.com
About Oritain
Oritain is a global leader in product origin verification. The company’s cutting-edge forensic science is trusted by organizations worldwide across industries as diverse as fashion and cotton, coffee, horticulture, meat, dairy, and more. Oritain works with some of the world’s leading brands to help them achieve regulatory compliance, reduce reputational risk, and meet market demand through proving the provenance of their products. The company employs over 200 people, working from offices around the world, serving clients in more than 20 countries.
About GG International
GG International is a leading fashion manufacturer based in Seoul, South Korea, with a legacy of excellence since 1997. They specialize in producing high-quality garments for top-tier US and EU brands, continuously expanding their capabilities to keep pace with the dynamic global fashion industry. Sustainability and ethical production are at the core of their operations, ensuring partners receive not just exceptional products, but ones that align with responsible manufacturing standards. Their motto, “making your life easier,” guides everything they do, from achieving competitive pricing and maintaining supply chain transparency to offering tailored design solutions that fit brands' unique needs.