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

The World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO) has more than 200 members in 59 countries worldwide, encompassing approximately 1 million people. Some members have worked in Fair Trade for over 40 years. These Fair Trade Organisations are: local businesses and organisations working for Fair Trade, from producers through to retailers. The Fair Trade definition above was developed by FINE (Fair Trade Labelling Organisation, WFTO, Network of European World Shops, and European Fair Trade Association). WFTO have expanded the definition of a Fair Trade Organisation and have agreed upon 9 rigorous standards which they must follow in their day to day work (see What is WFTO? for more details).

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

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

For more information, visit the World Fair Trade Organisation website at www.wfto.com