Mar 2, 2026
Since the updated VelTrak Terms of Use came into effect on 1 August 2025, the velvet industry has seen a clear lift in compliance and accountability. The goal remains simple: to maintain a fair and transparent system, where all participants operate on a level playing field and where the integrity of velvet is protected all the way to the point of export.
“These changes were initiated in response to the clear voice of the industry and have been shaped by those working within it for the benefit of the entire sector,” says DINZ CEO Rhys Griffiths. “This is about protecting value, strengthening integrity and ensuring the system works the same for everyone.”
A key part of this work is the VelTrak verification programme, which involves checks of accredited account owners, including exporters and agents. This verification process was approved and communicated by DINZ at the start of the 2025/26 season and is now an embedded part of the compliance framework.
The past three months have shown a noticeable improvement in monthly filing and payment compliance. Compliance has lifted steadily through December, January, and February, marking a significant improvement on the 2024/25 season. A small number of warning letters have been issued where deadlines were missed — in all cases, this triggered a prompt and voluntary correction. We are pleased to report that levy payments and filing for January were 100 percent compliant as of the 20th of the month.
“This trend shows that the strengthened settings are working,” says Griffiths. “We’re seeing accredited account owners step up and meet their obligations, which ultimately builds trust and fairness across the value chain.”
DINZ’s Quality Assurance team, with support from an external auditor, is leading the verification programme. As of February 2026, three exporter verifications have been initiated. The first two are well advanced, with some follow-ups still in progress. Two further verifications are scheduled for February–May. DINZ is cross-checking that filings, declarations, inventory management and levy payments align. Any discrepancies or refusal to cooperate may lead to additional verifications or VelTrak access suspension.
“These verifications are a tool to ensure that our exporters are operating in a manner that supports the integrity of the product produced. They are not about catching people out,” says Merryn Pugh, DINZ Quality Assurance Manager. “This is a process to reinforce confidence in the system and reward those who do the right thing.”
DINZ is collecting feedback from industry on what could be improved or refined for next season. If changes are proposed, they will be carefully considered around May/June 2026. There will be clear communication and plenty of time for account owners to prepare. The focus will remain on fairness, consistency, and lifting system confidence.
VelTrak verifications are delivering on their purpose, which is helping to ensure integrity, transparency, and credibility across the velvet supply chain. DINZ thanks all accredited account owners who have constructively engaged with the process to date. For questions or suggestions, please contact Merryn Pugh at merryn.pugh@deernz.org
