Fair Trade

What does fair trade certification mean?

When you see a product with the Fair Trade Certified seal, you can be sure it meets rigorous social, environmental, and economic standards. That means:

• Safe working conditions
• Environmental protection
• Sustainable livelihoods
• Community Development Funds

In many global supply chains, value is not shared equitably, and producers have limited ability to negotiate a fair exchange for their goods and services. To compete in today’s market, businesses drive down prices at the expense of those most vulnerable, meaning that producers may not receive payment that covers their basic needs or even the cost of production. This simply can’t go on.

The fair-trade model empowers producers and enables businesses to more transparently support sustainable livelihoods and practices. We continuously innovate this model and identify opportunities to expand our reach through business partnerships and through the expertise, technologies, and resources provided by our philanthropic partners large and small.

Ultimately, we’re shifting global systems of inequity to create a model where producers and their communities can thrive under strong social protections and fair trading relationships. By putting our seal on goods made responsibly, fairly, and sustainably, we make it easier for people to choose products that align with their values. Businesses are in turn rewarded for responsible sourcing and for supporting the people producing the products they buy and sell.