How Fairtrade works

Fairtrade also actively advocates for fair trade policies and practices locally and internationally, creating an environment where the rights and wellbeing of farmers and workers are prioritised. And we work hard to create more demand for fairly traded and ethical goods in countries around the world, driving positive change in global supply chains.

Let's get specific

• Fairtrade sets rigorous Standards with criteria for farmers, workers, traders and other partners to comply with. An independent certification body audits producer organisations and traders to ensure compliance with these Standards. FLOCERT is the main independent certification provider for Fairtrade.
  
• Across the world, Fairtrade works directly with farmers and workers on the ground to support on specific issues, support compliance with Fairtrade Standards, and to achieve development impact in their communities. Local Fairtrade teams are on hand to give farmers and workers expert advice on topics such as farm management, sustainability and safe working conditions. We also roll out all kinds of impact programmes on climate change, gender equality, young people in farming, child labour and more.
  
• Local Fairtrade organisations help businesses source products that are ethically and sustainably produced by connecting them with Fairtrade farmers and workers.
  
• At Fairtrade, we also drive awareness of unfair trade and the challenges farmers face, through local campaigns and our growing network of Fairtrade schools, universities and other communities. 
  
• Fairtrade advocates for fairer trade policies towards governments and brings the voices of smallholder farmers and workers to key debates – at regional, national, and international level. 
  

Global network, local expertise 

The Fairtrade system is made up of: 

• Three regional producer networks representing almost 1,900 organisations of farmers and workers in Africa and the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean. 
• More than 25 Fairtrade organisations that market and promote Fairtrade products in their countries. 
• Fairtrade International, the umbrella non-profit organisation that creates the internationally agreed Fairtrade Standards and coordinates Fairtrade worldwide.

Independent certification you can trust 

Fairtrade certification is rigorous, independent, and in line with best-in-class certification practice. Certification means that an independent auditor checks producer organisations and traders to ensure compliance with Fairtrade Standards. FLOCERT is the main independent certification provider for Fairtrade. FLOCERT is an ISO 17065-accredited enterprise.

This gives shoppers the confidence that the people behind the products they buy get a fair deal for their hard work.  

How to get certified.