The Fair Trade Organisation

Our company in China is the first UK company to be granted Fair Trade Status in P.R. China. For details of what this means, please read on and to view one of the independent references written about our company prior to joining click here.

"Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers – especially in the South.

Fair Trade Organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and campaigning for changes in the rules and practices of conventional trade."

The International Federation for Alternative Trade (IFAT) has more than 200 members in 59 countires worldwide, encompassing approximately 1 million people. Some members have worked in Fair Trade for over 40 years. These Fair Trade Organizations are: local businesses and organizations working for Fair Trade, from producers through to retailers. The Fair Trade definition above was developed by FINE ( Fair Trade Labeling Oranisation, IFAT, Network of European World Shops, and European Fair Trade Association). IFAT have expanded the definition of a Fair Trade Organization and have agreed upon 9 rigorous standards which they must follow in their day to day work (see "What is IFAT?" sheet for more details").

At the World Social Forum in Mumbai in January 2004, IFAT launched the new FAIR TRADE ORGANIZATION MARK.

Fair Trade Organizations that follow the 9 standards and are registered by IFAT may use the FAIR TRADE ORGANIZATION MARK on websites, catalogues and promotional literature. In return for the right to use the Mark, the Fair Trade Organization must agree to adhere to IFAT's strict monitoring system. IFAT will carry out continuous monitoring of Fair Trade Organizations, to ensure they continue to follow the 9 standards.

For more information, visit the Fair Trade Organistaion website at www.ifat.org