Fair Trade for Business
Working with fair trade makes you a partner in empowering individuals, building strong communities, and taking steps to protect the planet. Become part of a movement that’s getting attention from millions of people worldwide. Already a business partner with us? Log in here.
What would you like to do?
How to begin working with Fair Trade USA®
To get started, please choose an action in the menu above. If you can’t find the answers you’re looking for below, contact our team for help.
Who can benefit from fair trade certification?
Fair trade isn’t just a way to do good—it’s a way to transform your business and meet your sustainability goals. We certify whole products, ingredients, and multi-ingredient products in five main categories: Coffee, Produce & Floral, Seafood, Apparel & Home Goods, and Consumer Packaged Goods. Click on select categories to learn more or contact us directly.
Fair trade for producers
The fair trade movement began as a way to connect disadvantaged producers to vibrant, global markets. The goal was to create trading partnerships founded on transparency, fairness, and economic empowerment. Today we continue this tradition, delivering long-term benefits to farms, factories, and fisheries, and the people who represent them.
Fair trade for brands and traders
Responsible sourcing creates shared value throughout entire supply chains—a system where everyone can benefit from transparency and ethical decisions. Review the Trade Standard to understand how certification works for brands and traders.
Fair trade for retailers
Consumers are increasingly seeking out companies that sell ethically-sourced goods.
Testimonials
"Before, we would sell our products at low and unstable prices. But thankfully we had the opportunity to participate in fair trade since the beginning, which has allowed us to get ahead while caring for our families."
"Since the fair trade program started here, the factory has improved overall. I like that by working to make a good product, we are also able to help our families and each other."
“In 2015, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to India, and witness first-hand the benefits that our relationship with fair trade provides to our sourcing communities. Meeting our tea pluckers and their families, attending community events, and visiting schools where scholarships were funded by Fair Trade Premiums, I recognize that the impact of our business extends far beyond the product you see on shelves.”
“Social responsibility and justice have always been important to Obey in both message and practice. Our hope is not only to benefit the workers in our Fair Trade Certified factories, but to lead by example and promote the expansion of the fair trade program."
Standards
Explore our full list of standards for all businesses that work with fair trade. We’ll work with you to make sure our standards are clear and achievable.
SEE THE STANDARDSMaking every purchase, every day, matter
Fair trade is changing the way people think about their day-to-day purchases. See our consumer insights to see why more than 1,250 companies have chosen fair trade certification to meet sustainability goals, increase brand value, and reach more shoppers.
Recognition
Awareness of the Fair Trade Certified seal has nearly doubled since 2008—now at 63% in the United States.
Demand
58% of American shoppers are more likely to try products from a brand that is mindful of its impact on the environment and society.
Preference
65% of American shoppers indicate they would trust a product more if it was Fair Trade Certified.