# Catalog validation — AI draft + deterministic gates

Companion to **AI agents for eCommerce product catalog management**.

## AI may draft

- Title variants, descriptions, alt text
- Attribute extraction from images / PDFs (size, material, color)
- Duplicate **candidates** (not merges)
- Category suggestions

## Deterministic gates (must pass before publish)

| Rule | Fail if |
| ---- | ------- |
| Required attrs | Size / GTIN / care missing on apparel |
| Price | Null, zero, or currency mismatch |
| Inventory link | SKU not in inventory service |
| Image | No primary image |
| Duplicate | Exact GTIN already live |
| Claims | "Medical" / "organic" without certified flag |

## Publish path

Draft in PIM → validation report → merchandiser approve → storefront. The agent does **not** press publish on week one.