Non-invertible Symmetry as a Solution to the Strong CP Problem in a GUT-inspired Standard Model

We propose a three-zero texture for the down-quark mass matrix within a $SU(5)$ GUT-inspired Standard Model, enforced by a non-invertible selection rule originating from Z₂ gauging of ZN symmetries. Assuming CP invariance at the high-energy scale, our framework solves the strong CP problem while reproducing a realistic quark mass matrix. The CP symmetry is spontaneously broken down at an intermediate scale via complex vacuum expectation values of new scalar fields ηᵢ, which generate the CP phase in the CKM matrix without inducing the QCD θ term. The present model incorporates three generations of matter, Higgs, and additional scalars with a common structure under the non-invertible symmetry, which may be naturally embedded into $SO(10)$ GUTs at high energies.