Per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), once valued for their water‑, oil‑ and stain‑resistant properties, are now subject to a growing number of global restrictions due to the risks they pose to human health and the environment. This shift is part of a wider move toward tighter chemical and product‑safety regulation across softlines and consumer goods, with legislation becoming increasingly stringent and far more complex to navigate without specialist insight. In this environment, conformity requirements can be unintentionally overlooked as other business priorities compete for attention, ultimately jeopardizing product success.
Through a series of onsite workshops entitled ‘Detoxing PFAS: from apparel and footwear production’, our experts have been equipping businesses across Asia, Europe and the US with the knowledge needed to understand PFAS use, restrictions and emerging alternatives. These sessions guide participants through essential topics to help them navigate legislation and best practice, underscoring our commitment to supporting the global softlines industry with timely expertise and actionable insights.

SGS PFAS workshop, Taiwan Session
The workshops delivered practical strategies for transitioning away from PFAS without compromising quality or performance. By exploring the regulatory landscape, PFAS measurement and industrial mitigation practices, participants gained a comprehensive framework for managing both the responsibilities and opportunities created by the accelerating shift away from PFAS.
Case studies added real-world context, comparing test methods and examining brand claims and contamination sources to show how PFAS control is evolving across the supply chain. To further support businesses on this journey, we introduced SGS Total Solutions, highlighting services that help organizations confidently reduce and replace PFAS in production and retail.
We are proud to stand alongside businesses at this pivotal moment for the softlines industry, sharing expertise that supports safer products, strengthens brand reputation and builds lasting consumer trust.

SGS PFAS workshop, Shanghai Session

Sustainability is in our DNA. Through our four IMPACT NOW for Sustainability pillars – climate, nature, ESG assurance and circularity – we deliver innovative solutions that enable smarter decision-making, regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility. As part of our commitment to a climate-neutral, nature-positive, and pollution-free future, the nature pillar includes comprehensive solutions to help businesses address the PFAS challenge across their entire value chain. Learn more about IMPACT NOW for sustainability.
Keith Tsang
Senior Service Development Manager
Softlines, C&P
t: +852 22048354
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
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Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400 083,
India