May 6 2017: St Paul, Minnesota - Fair Anita is proud to announce our certification of Fair Trade status by the Fair Trade Federation. To be a Fair Trade Company means to operate a trade agreement
“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.”
Our certification states that Fair Anita follows the guidelines of the Fair Trade Principles, such as: providing opportunities for economically disadvantaged producers, fair wages, good working conditions, no child labour, commitment to gender equity and empowerment, respect for the environment, skill building for the employees, and accountability. Additionally, The Federation informed us that we were one of the strongest candidates that they had seen; usually companies have to go through three rounds of checks, but we were accepted just after the initial round.
Having Fair Trade status reaffirms the equitable practices we knew we were already committed to. Fair Anita is proud to join the other members of the Fair Trade Organization whose dedication to these principles “prove that greater justice in world trade is possible” and “highlights the need for change in the rules and practice of conventional trade and shows how a successful business can also put people first.”(WTFO)
We are excited for the increased growth this certificate will bring our company and thus the even greater number of women who will have economic opportunities to live an independent and successful life.