What are Ethical Standards?
Ethical standards in business and global trade are guidelines that focus on protecting people and the environment throughout the global marketplace. Ethical standards cover areas including labor rights, fair pricing, anti-corruption, and environmental protection. Fair Trade USA™ has created rigorous standards to advance ethics in global supply chains, supporting brands in fair and sustainable sourcing.
Ethical Standards in Trade
Ethical standards encompass a wide range of issues, and often address:
- Human Rights: Ethical trade requires safe working conditions, fair wages, and safe systems to report violations. It rejects forced labor, child labor, and discrimination in any form.
- Environmental Impact: Sustainable sourcing, reduced emissions, waste management, and building climate resiliency are key environmental considerations.
- Corporate Responsibility: Transparent supply chains, community investment, and long-term commitments to fair practices reflect a company’s accountability to consumers and other stakeholders.
Fair Trade Standards
Fair Trade USA standards are a set of requirements and compliance criteria that producers and traders must meet to achieve Fair Trade Certification. The Fair Trade Certified™ label also makes it easy for consumers to cut through the noise and find products that they can trust were made according to stringent Fair Trade standards.
Fair Trade USA monitors and tracks the impact of ethical standards by monitoring and evaluating:
- Education, organization, and empowerment within producer communities
- Workplace safety
- Fair pay and income stabilization for all workers
- Business success and consumer understanding of the Fair trade model
Why Ethical Standards Matter
Ethical standards matter because they protect both people and the planet in the global marketplace. Supply chains often lack oversight and enforced standards, creating unethical social and environmental conditions. By prioritizing ethics and sustainability, businesses can help create a more just and resilient future. Brands that commit to ethical sourcing through Fair Trade Certified earn consumer trust and loyalty while improving livelihoods, strengthening communities, and protecting our planet.