Having reliable data -- such as geolocation information about where products are produced -- is an increasingly important part of global due diligence. Connecting systems and exchanging information is only part of the challenge. For information exchange to be trusted, there also needs to be clear governance of how information is collected, accessed, shared and used.  Other considerations include reducing duplication and fragmentation of information, and making sure producers can manage and act on their own data. Voluntary sustainability standards (VSS) can play a role.

This report explains the findings of traceability and interoperability pilot projects conducted by Fairtrade in coffee, cocoa and banana supply chains, supported by the ISEAL Innovations Fund. We found three different pathways that can enable trusted interoperability:

1. Reusing a shared reference where one exists – such as the ICO Mark for coffee
2. Connecting multiple references where traceability is fragmented
3. Preserving existing links where operational traceability is already strong – for example in bananas, connecting packing-list information with logistics identifiers.