FAIRTRADE

Fairtrade certification is an internationally recognized system designed to ensure fair trading practices. It aims to provide better prices, decent working conditions, and a fairer deal for farmers and workers in developing countries. Endorsed by the World Fair Trade Organization, Fairtrade involves more than 1,240 producer organizations across 75 countries, benefiting over 1.6 million workers. Established by a Dutch organization in 1988, Fairtrade certification assures consumers that products bearing the Fairtrade mark meet rigorous, independently verified standards. 

Fairtrade changes the way trade works through better prices, decent working conditions, and a fairer deal for farmers and workers in developing countries. The Fairtrade system connects producers, businesses, and consumers in a global system of sustainable, ethical trade, ensuring that producers receive fair compensation and work under safe conditions. 

Fairtrade certification applies to a wide range of products, ensuring that a variety of goods can be produced and traded under fair conditions. The certification system covers food products like coffee, cocoa, tea, fruits, and spices, as well as non-food items such as cotton, gold, and sports balls. This broad applicability allows consumers to make ethical choices across a wide range of everyday products. 

Fairtrade products are produced in a way that ensures fair treatment of producers and sustainable environmental practices. This includes minimizing the use of harmful chemicals, protecting natural water sources, and promoting biodiversity. 

To obtain Fairtrade certification, companies must undergo regular audits conducted by independent auditors, such as FLOCERT, to ensure compliance with Fairtrade Standards. These standards cover three main areas: 

Social Development: 

• Improving conditions of employment, safety, and health 
• Providing training opportunities 
• Ensuring the absence of discriminatory practices 
• Prohibiting child labor 
• Facilitating democratic management of Fairtrade benefits 

Economic Development: 

• Paying the minimum Fairtrade price 
• Ensuring sustainable production practices 
• Paying a Fairtrade premium 

Environmental Development: 

• Reducing and safely using agrochemicals 
• Managing waste responsibly 
• Maintaining soil fertility and hydrological resources 
• Prohibiting the use of genetically modified organisms