Fair Trade Certification: definition
A certification ensuring producers in developing countries receive fair prices, safe working conditions, and community development premiums for their goods.
Fair Trade certification is awarded by organisations such as Fairtrade International, Fair Trade USA, and the World Fair Trade Organization to producers and supply chains that meet standards for fair pricing, safe and humane working conditions, prohibition of forced and child labour, and community development. In fashion, Fair Trade certification typically applies to cotton farming, garment production, and accessories manufacturing. Certified brands pay a Fairtrade Premium on top of the agreed price, which producers invest in community projects such as schools, healthcare, and infrastructure. Fair Trade fashion is particularly relevant for brands sourcing from South Asia, East Africa, and Latin America.