Fair trade is a movement that advocates for ethical practices in trading and production of goods. With growing concerns over the exploitation of workers and the lack of transparency in supply chains, fair trade emerged as a solution to these issues. The certification process is central to the philosophy of fair trade products. In this blog, we will delve into the certification process of fair trade products.

1. What is Fair Trade Certification? 🏆

Fair trade certification is a process where third-party organizations assess the practices of companies that produce a specific product. The certification guarantees that specific conditions were met during the production, such as workers’ rights and environmental sustainability.

Fair trade certification varies based on the type of product that is being produced. The process can range from environmental management systems (EMS) for textile manufacturing to social compliance audits for food production companies.

The fair trade seal that appears on fair trade products assures consumers that the goods they are buying are ethical and meet specific standards.

A Fair Trade Certified Seal on a package of fair trade coffee

2. Fair Trade Standards 📜

The fair trade certification process follows specific standards that are set by the Fairtrade International organization. These standards include:

  • Fair prices
  • Payment of additional premiums to improve workers’ livelihoods and working conditions
  • Prohibition of child and forced labor
  • Non-discrimination and gender equality
  • Safe and healthy working conditions
  • Environmental sustainability
  • Transparent supply chains

Companies that violate these standards can lose their fair trade certification.

3. The Certification Process 🔄

The certification process of fair trade products involves auditing the production of goods according to Fairtrade International standards. The process consists of four steps:

1. Initial Inquiry: Companies submit an application to a fair trade certifying organization.

2. Assessment: The fair trade certifying organization conducts an audit of the company’s production processes and supply chain. Auditors visit production facilities and growers to assess their working conditions.

3. Implementation and Monitoring: Companies must correct any non-compliances identified in the assessment. Auditors then perform continuous monitoring throughout the year.

4. Re-Certification: The certification process is ongoing. Companies must undergo recertification every few years to guarantee that their production processes meet Fair Trade standards.

A woman at a fair trade coffee cooperative in Honduras

4. Benefits of Fair Trade Certification 💰

By purchasing Fair Trade Certified products, consumers contribute to a more socially and environmentally responsible world. Fair trade provides the following benefits:

  • Living wages for workers: traditional trade may not always pay workers a fair wage, but fair trade guarantees that workers are compensated adequately.
  • Environmentally sustainable production: fair trade sets certain standards which ensure environmentally sustainable production.
  • Empowering marginalized groups: Fair trade supports the empowerment of marginalized groups by supporting cooperatives and worker-owned businesses.

5. Challenges of Fair Trade Certification 🚫

While fair trade has positive impacts on workers and the environment, the certification process has certain challenges; these include:

  • The cost of certification: The cost of certification may be too expensive for small farmers, making it difficult for them to attain certification.
  • Complex supply chains: Groceries stores may have complex supply chains, making it challenging to trace the origins of specific products they carry.

Final Thoughts 🤔

Fair trade certification is an excellent way to ensure that we are contributing to a more ethical world through our purchases. By looking for and buying Fair Trade Certified products, we can help support marginalized communities and promote environmentally sustainable production processes. However, it is essential to remember that fair trade is an ongoing process that requires continuous effort and support.

Thank you for reading!

A picture of a farmer in a field holding Fair Trade Certified coffee beans