VTI Community Traceability Data messaging Guidelines - v1.0.6
Request for Comments (RFC): Traceability Data Exchange EPCIS Messaging Guideline (Version 1.0.6)
We are pleased to announce the release of the Traceability Data Exchange EPCIS Messaging Guideline (Version 1.0.6) for public review and comment.
This guideline has been developed to support the growing adoption of traceability systems based on GS1 standards within Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). As countries continue their digital transformation journeys across health systems and supply chain operations, the need for interoperable and consistently implemented traceability standards becomes increasingly important.
A major challenge in implementing traceability solutions is the variation in how standards are interpreted and deployed across different actors in the value chain. Even small differences in implementation approaches can create interoperability barriers, increase costs, and slow adoption. These community guidelines are intended to address those challenges by promoting common EPCIS messaging patterns that align with LMIC operational realities and health commodity supply chains.
The guideline is intended for technical implementers responsible for generating and exchanging traceability messages and assumes a foundational understanding of traceability concepts and global standards.
Key Design Principles
The guideline is grounded in several core principles:
Global standards as the foundation — GS1 standards remain the basis for implementation, with extensions used only when necessary to support local requirements.
Recognition of mixed value chains — Solutions must accommodate diverse stakeholders, technological maturity levels, and operational models common in LMIC environments.
Visibility first, precision over time — The focus is on enabling improved visibility and decision-making while recognizing that implementation maturity evolves incrementally.
Cross-value-chain interoperability — Traceability systems must support coordination across multiple actors and systems of record throughout the supply chain ecosystem.
RFC Review Period
The RFC review period will remain open for two months, from May 6, 2026 through July 6, 2026.
Stakeholders, implementers, standards organizations, ministries of health, solution providers, and community partners are encouraged to review the document and provide feedback, recommendations, and implementation considerations.
We welcome comments related to:
EPCIS messaging structure and implementation guidance
Interoperability considerations
Alignment with GS1 standards
LMIC operational applicability
Scalability and extensibility considerations
Implementation experience and lessons learned
Feedback should be directed to hello@vticommunity.com. Thank you in advance for your participation and contributions toward strengthening interoperable traceability ecosystems across global health supply chains.