We take great pride in following the globally accepted principles for Fair Trade. It is truly a wonderful thing to work directly with artisans from around the world in a mutually accepted and productive working relationship so that they and their communities are empowered and are brought into the global community!
- Create opportunities for economically and socially marginalized artisans and craftsmen. Fair trade is a strategy for poverty alleviation and sustainable development achieved through long-term trading partnerships.
- Develop transparent and accountable relationships with artisans and craftsmen to ensure that relationships are open, fair, consistent, and respectful.
- Build up the capacity of artisans, craftsmen and their communities. Promoters of Fair Trade invest time and resources to help producers build their businesses and create sustainable supply chains.
- Promote Fair Trade by raising awareness, by educating customers and producers, and by inspiring other businesses to adopt fair trade practices.
- Pay promptly and fairly by discussing costs and pricing openly, honestly and up front so that producers are able to earn a fair wage.
- Support safe and empowering working conditions that are free of discrimination and forced labor. Healthy workplaces empower producers to participate in decision-making.
- Cultivate environmental stewardship by encouraging responsible use of resources and eco-friendly production. Promoters of Fair Trade reduce, reuse, reclaim, and recycle materials whenever possible.
- Ensure the rights of children are strictly protected by never using exploitative child labor. Promoters of Fair Trade support children’s right to security, play and education, and respect the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
- Respect the cultural identity of artisans and craftsmen and celebrate their diversity. Fair trade products and production methods respect the traditions of the local communities.